Drew Sanders Announces Transfer Destination

Former Alabama linebacker Drew Sanders has announced via social media his transfer destination: the Arkansas Razorbacks.

Sanders joined the Crimson Tide in the 2020 recruiting class as a 5-star athlete out of Denton, Texas. He settled in as an edge linebacker. He earned a backup role behind Chris Allen ahead of the 2021 season and was quickly thrust into action when Allen's season was ended by a foot injury in Week 1 against Miami.

Sanders played well, especially as a run stopper and in his coverage responsibilities. As a pass rusher, he still had a bit of a learning curve. On the season, Sanders recorded 24 total tackles, 2.5 for loss including a sack.

After Sanders suffered a hand injury against Ole Miss, 5-star freshman Dallas Turner stepped in and recorded 8.5 sacks on just 37% of the defensive snaps all season.

Because of Turner's impact as a pass rusher, Sanders didn't see the field much once he recovered. With Will Anderson locking down the opposite side, playing opportunities would be scarce for Sanders if he remained in Tuscaloosa.

Sanders visited with the Razorbacks Wednesday. He had also visited with Oklahoma, which he'd committed to before signing with Alabama, and Texas, which was expected to be his ultimate destination. In the end, Sanders landed with Arkansas and figures to be an immediate impact piece on one of the SEC's most promising up-and-coming programs.

The Razorbacks host the Crimson Tide on October 1 during the 2022 season.