Jaylen Mbakwe Enters Transfer Portal

The Crimson Tide's defensive back depth took a major hit, with Nick Kelly of ALcom reporting that Alabama defensive back Jaylen Mbakwe will enter the transfer portal.

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Mbakwe was a true freshman last season for Alabama and contributed on both defense and special teams for the Crimson Tide. Mbakwe was a five-star cornerback prospect from Clay-Chalkville High School in Birmingham, Alabama. Mbakwe was the starting punt returner for the Crimson Tide and saw heavy usage on defense for Alabama, rotating in at cornerback and even saw playing time at Husky in Kane Wommack's defense.

Mbakwe totaled 15 tackles in 2024, adding two pass breakups and one interception.

Charlie Potter of Bama On3 reported that Mbakwe was offered a seven-figure NIL deal from another school, and wanted a guarantee of a starting job. Alabama may not be able to offer the starting guarantee, with Zabien Brown likely returning and Domani Jackson's looming decision on whether or not to go to the NFL.

Additionally, there are rumors of Mbakwe being able to play both ways, which is something we recently saw from Colorado star Travis Hunter - who won the 2024 Heisman Trophy.

The Crimson Tide saw movement in the secondary already, with Jahlil Hurley and DeVonta Smith departing from Alabama earlier in the portal cycle. Mbakwe is the latest blow to Alabama's secondary.