Breaking News: The Alabama Crimson Tide suffer a setback as their standout safety enters the Transfer Portal.

The Alabama Crimson Tide concluded their season with a 12-2 record, falling short of the College Football National title for the third consecutive year in Nick Saban’s final season as head coach. Following Saban’s retirement, Alabama appointed Kalen DeBoer as their new head coach. However, the team has experienced multiple player transfers, including their standout freshman, adding to the challenges they face.

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Notably, the Crimson Tide have lost their exceptional safety, Caleb Downs, to the transfer portal. Downs, a five-star recruit committed to Alabama for the 2023 season over other top programs, had an outstanding freshman year. As a starter, he played in every game, accumulating 107 tackles, 3.5 for a loss, two interceptions, four pass deflections, one fumble recovery, and one forced fumble, earning an impressive 85.6 PFF Grade. Downs led the team in tackles, ranked ninth in tackles for loss, second in interceptions, and fifth in pass deflections. His remarkable achievements earned him recognition as a Freshman All-American, First-Team All-SEC, SEC All-Freshman Team member, and the SEC Freshman of the Year.

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In addition to Downs, several other notable defensive backs from Alabama, including Kristian Story, Earl Little Jr., Jake Pope, Dezz Ricks, Antonio Kite, and Trey Amos, have also entered the transfer portal.

Caleb Downs is expected to attract significant interest from various teams, with his decision likely influenced by two key factors. Firstly, his desire to compete for a championship-contending team will play a crucial role in his decision. Secondly, the potential for lucrative NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals could impact his choice. An anonymous director of player personnel predicts Downs could secure a multi-million dollar deal, potentially earning top-quarterback money.

Teams like the Georgia Bulldogs and Ohio State Buckeyes are anticipated to aggressively pursue the elite freshman in the transfer portal. The outcome remains uncertain, and the college football community awaits to see which team successfully lands Caleb Downs.