As the spring transfer window heats up, the Alabama Crimson Tide find themselves in unfamiliar territory—rebuilding. With the departure of legendary coach Nick Saban and the arrival of Kalen DeBoer, the program stands at a crossroads. The standard hasn’t changed—championships are still the goal—but the roadmap to reach them might require a few detours. Here are five positions Alabama could target to reinforce its roster in the spring transfer window.
1. Quarterback: The Search for Experience
Jalen Milroe has flashed promise, but with DeBoer’s offense demanding pinpoint precision and quick processing, Alabama could explore the portal for a veteran signal-caller. A grad transfer with high-level experience could provide competition, depth, or even emerge as the ideal fit for the new scheme. Think of a Michael Penix Jr.-style field general—someone who can digest a complex playbook, make decisive throws, and serve as a steadying force in the locker room.
2. Offensive Tackle: Anchoring the Edge
While the Tide traditionally boast an elite offensive line, inconsistency plagued them in 2024. With JC Latham off to the NFL, there’s a glaring need at tackle. Alabama might pursue a seasoned lineman from a Power Five school who can protect the blindside and handle SEC-caliber pass rushers. A plug-and-play transfer at tackle could be the difference between offensive stagnation and explosion in DeBoer’s system.
3. Cornerback: Speed, Size, and Swagger
The SEC is a wide receiver’s playground, and Alabama needs lockdown defenders to survive it. With Kool-Aid McKinstry and Terrion Arnold gone, the secondary looks raw. Expect Alabama to scout for an experienced corner with elite footwork, instincts, and SEC-ready toughness. A rangy cornerback from the Big Ten or ACC with starting experience would fit perfectly into DeBoer’s new defensive vision.
4. Inside Linebacker: Replacing Leadership
Losing Deontae Lawson to the NFL Draft leaves a massive hole in the heart of Alabama’s defense. They’ll need a vocal, sideline-to-sideline leader who can call plays, set alignments, and blow up inside runs. An experienced inside linebacker—ideally one who has captained a defense—could step in and provide immediate leadership, especially with a defensive coordinator transition underway.
5. Wide Receiver: A Game-Changer Out Wide
The Tide have talent at receiver, but they lack a true game-breaker. Jermaine Burton’s departure creates a void for a vertical threat who can stretch defenses and open up the middle of the field. A transfer with blazing speed, precise route running, and big-game experience—think Xavier Worthy’s mold—would thrive in DeBoer’s pass-heavy system and complement Milroe’s deep-ball prowess.
In this new era, Alabama isn’t just reloading—it’s reimagining. The spring portal is no longer a safety net; it’s a battlefield. With surgical precision, the Tide must identify not just talent, but culture fits—players who can buy into DeBoer’s vision while elevating the team’s ceiling. The dynasty isn’t dead—it’s adapting.
