Pair of Alabama starters not expected to enter NFL Draft, per report

Alabama football’s Yhonzae Pierre and Keon Sabb are both currently expected to return to the Crimson Tide next season, per a report from CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz. Both players are eligible to declare for the NFL Draft.

A source close to Pierre recently told Touchdown Alabama it is ‘more than likely’ the talented edge rusher is staying with the Tide.

Pierre started at wolf linebacker in 12 games for Alabama in 2025. The Alabama native had a breakout season, finishing the year with 52 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss and eight sacks.

Sabb started at safety for the Crimson Tide every game this season. He wrapped up the year with 54 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, three pass breakups, one sack and one interception.

This would be massive returns for Kalen DeBoer and company. Pierre would give Alabama a proven pass rusher back. If Sabb returns, the Tide will return starting experience at each position in the secondary.