Justin Okoronkwo was one of the more promising freshman players for the Alabama Crimson Tide in 2024.
The Germany product was talked about in a complimentary fashion by Alabama’s coaching staff throughout the season despite not getting much playing time as a linebacker. He also flashed in Alabama’s last spring game when he led all defenders in tackles with 11.
Unfortunately for the talented freshman, the Tide had veteran linebackers in Deontae Lawson, Jihaad Campbell and Justin Jefferson in front of him. Jefferson and Lawson have decided to come back to the Tide next season and not go to the NFL. This prompted Okoronkwo to leave and eventually join the South Carolina Gamecocks.
Jordan Kaye of The State Newspaper in Columbia, South Carolina interviewed Okoronkwo, and the former Alabama player revealed one of the main reasons he decided to depart from Alabama football.
“I felt like the starting spots were already gone,” Okoronkwo said, “and, I mean, it’s hard to compete — especially at a place like Bama — with guys who are more experienced than you.”
Alabama lost 11 defenders to the portal.
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