In Kalen DeBoer’s first season at Alabama, he brought in 14 transfers. Most of which were starters or key contributors for the Crimson Tide in 2024. Since the conclusion of the 2024 season, DeBoer and the Crimson Tide have landed seven transfers. In comparison to the rest of the SEC, how does Alabama stack up in the portal thus far?
The first thing that I look at for Alabama in particular is: Did Alabama address its positional needs? Does Alabama’s incoming transfers fit from a culture and roster standpoint? The answer to both of those questions is yes.
The Alabama coaching staff has done a good job of assessing and evaluating talent in the transfer portal. It seems like the seven transfers that Alabama brought in can come in and seek immediate playing time. Six out of the seven transfers saw significant playing time at their previous school.
When it comes to the rest of the SEC, there is a difference in terms of how their coaching staff approaches the transfer portal. Obviously, some schools are in more desperation mode than others. Several schools that I feel like have done a good job of supplementing the roster with the talent they already have are LSU, Texas A&M, and South Carolina. Each have brought in proven transfers to coincide with players returning for the 2025 season.
Overall, I feel like Alabama is up to speed in the transfer portal despite having a “down year” most would argue. This coaching staff has brought in seven transfers that fit the team’s needs and will be key pieces moving forward.
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Brody Smoot is a team reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “follow” him on X, via @brodysmoot.
