In a surprising turn of events, Alabama football’s roster depth, which many predicted would take a serious hit following the 2025 NFL draft declarations, has remained remarkably intact. Despite key players like Jalen Milroe and Tyler Booker heading to the draft, the team’s foundation remains solid, and the momentum has not slowed.
According to CBS Sports’ Blake Brockermeyer, while Alabama will certainly feel the loss of talent, the program is fortified enough to continue thriving in the 2025 season. “Alabama loses a significant amount of talent yearly, and 2025 is no different, with quarterback Jalen Milroe, guard Tyler Booker, and linebacker Jihaad Campbell all expected to go high in the draft,” Brockermeyer noted.
However, there’s a silver lining on the defensive side. Deontae Lawson and Justin Jefferson, both linebackers, as well as defensive linemen Tim Keenan and L.T. Overton, are set to return. In the secondary, Keon Sabb (safety) and Domani Jackson (cornerback) will also be staying put.
Offensively, Alabama is poised to stay competitive, with key returnees like linemen Parker Brailsford and Jaeden Roberts, running back Jam Miller, and receiver Germie Bernard. This strong core will provide a solid foundation for whoever steps in to replace Milroe, whether it’s Austin Mack or Ty Simpson.
Adding even more promise to the situation is Kalen DeBoer’s massive success in the transfer portal, which has reshaped the roster with incredible additions. 247 Sports ranks his transfer class second overall, boasting 43 commits, including six 5-stars, 24 4-stars, and 12 3-stars.
This influx of talent has significantly bolstered the roster and shifted the team’s identity, moving away from the familiar Nick Saban era and towards a more DeBoer-centric future. With his new-look team, DeBoer is positioning Alabama for a potential return to championship contention.
More news….
Former Alabama linebacker explains why he transferred to South Carolina
Justin Okoronkwo, a promising young linebacker, only spent one season with Alabama football before deciding to pursue a different opportunity. After the 2024 season, Okoronkwo transferred to South Carolina, entering the transfer portal just before the deadline.
This timing is significant, as it followed the announcements from inside linebackers Deontae Lawson and Justin Jefferson that they would be returning for another season with Alabama. Okoronkwo explained his decision in an interview with The State in South Carolina.
“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.”
Along with the return of Lawson and Jefferson, Alabama also secured Nikhai Hill-Green, a linebacker from Colorado. This made for a crowded room, even with Jihaad Campbell, a 2024 starter, declaring for the NFL Draft.
Faced with tough competition, Okoronkwo decided to seek opportunities elsewhere and found a new home with the Gamecocks. South Carolina needs to replace two starting linebackers for the 2025 season. He also noted that the program’s strength staff played a role in his decision.
“(It’s) very impressive, especially compared to Bama,” Okoronkwo said. “What they are doing there, I really like because it’s way more related to the game. Like what drills they do and what lifts they do. That really stood out to me.”
In his brief time at Alabama, Okoronkwo logged 39 defensive snaps in 2024, including 14 in the Missouri game. The former three-star recruit from Germany is now looking forward to his new chapter with South Carolina.
