Thus far, Alabama has landed five transfers this offseason. Those five include defensive back Cam Calhoun, interior offensive lineman Kam Dewberry, defensive lineman Kelby Collins, linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green, and wide receiver Isaiah Horton. Each of them have an opportunity to come in and make an immediate impact for the Crimson Tide next season. Today, I will assess Alabama’s transfer portal haul up to this point in the offseason.
The first thing that stands out to me is the fact that Alabama was able to land experienced transfers in power-four conferences. Each of the five transfers have valuable experience and have competed in larger conferences.
Calhoun signed with Michigan coming out of high school but transferred to Utah after his first season. In 2024, Calhoun tallied 21 tackles, nine pass deflections, and one interception for the Utes. He will provide depth and experience in Alabama’s secondary. With starting cornerback Domani Jackson potentially turning pro, his role could be vital to Alabama’s success in the secondary.
Dewberry was a key offensive lineman for Texas A&M in each of his three seasons in College Station. He made seven starts and played in 32 games for the Aggies. At 6-foot-4 and 330 pounds, Alabama could experiment with Dewberry at offensive tackle or offensive guard. He has the potential to play both for the Crimson Tide. Regardless of where he plays, I expect Dewberry to be an offensive starter in 2025.
Collins is an Alabama native that returns to his home state with two years of experience at Florida. Alabama defensive line coach Freddie Roach played a key role in helping the Crimson Tide land Collins’ commitment the second time around. At 6-foot-4 and 278 pounds, Collins can play either defensive end or defensive tackle in Kane Wommack’s ‘SWARM’ defense. In two seasons in the Swamp, Collins recorded 29 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and one forced fumble. He will bey a key player up front for Alabama in 2025.
Hill-Green is the most experienced transfer that Alabama has landed this offseason. The Maryland native spent two seasons at Michigan, one season at Charlotte, and this past season at Colorado. Altogether, he has recorded 206 total tackles, eight pass deflections, and four sacks. He could be Jihaad Campbell’s replacement at inside linebacker with Campbell expected to depart for the NFL. Regardless, he will have an opportunity to see the field early and often next season.
Horton might be the most valuable transfer addition so far this season. With Alabama losing four wide receivers to the transfer portal, his presence will be welcoming for the Crimson Tide in 2025. Horton spent three seasons at Miami before transferring to Alabama. During those three seasons, Horton reeled in 70 receptions for 790 yards and six touchdowns. At 6-foot-4, Horton could pose a deep ball threat and become a reliable target for whoever Alabama starts at quarterback next season.
Overall, I am pleased with the players that Alabama’s coaching staff has brought in through the transfer portal. I feel like each of the transfers bring something valuable to the team. The other positions that I believe Alabama will need to add depth and talent at are safety, offensive tackle, and kicker. Those are positions that could use some proven talent and experience as the Crimson Tide look to turn things around in 2025.
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Brody Smoot is a team reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “follow” him on X, via @brodysmoot.
