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What does the addition of a former Big Ten OL mean for Alabama football?

Michigan State OL Geno VanDeMark (#74) warms up before 2023 matchup against Western Michigan.
Junfu Han - USA TODAY NETWORK

Alabama football has heated up in the NCAA transfer portal.

Kalen DeBoer told reporters the Crimson Tide would add pieces to its roster, and it has done so.

RELATED: BREAKING: Former Michigan State OL transfers to Alabama

Alabama picked up two players from Power Five schools for its secondary, and now it’s added an offensive lineman. The Tide pulled Geno VanDeMark, a former Michigan State player, from the portal via multiple reports. VanDeMark has started eight games during his time with the Spartans. The 6-foot-5, 320-pounder has two years of eligibility left as an interior lineman.

VanDeMark could be a guard or tackle with his frame, so it will be interesting to see where Chris Kapilovic — Alabama’s offensive line coach — has the New Jersey native line up. The departure of James Brockermeyer to Texas Christian University opens an opportunity for depth at center for VanDeMark. Parker Brailsford, a transfer from Washington, is the expected starter, but the Crimson Tide is thin at the position behind him. VanDeMark brings size, power, experience, and some athleticism. He needs more development, and Kapilovic will provide it.

We will see where VanDeMark fits in best up front when fall camp arrives.

He is the second offensive linemen the Tide pulled in from the portal.

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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine.  You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.

Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a senior writer and reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. He has covered Alabama football for 15 years and his knowledge and coverage of the Crimson Tide's program have made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.

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