Jaylen Mbakwe Returns to Alabama

The transfer portal is nothing but insanity.

On Monday night, it was reported Alabama defensive back Jaylen Mbakwe was entering the transfer portal after receiving a seven-figure offer and being promised a chance to play on both sides of the football.

Now, with the help of wide receiver Ryan Williams and the Crimson Tide staff, Mbakwe has decided to withdraw from the transfer portal and will return to Alabama, according to Hayes Fawcett of On3 Sports.

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.

The retention of Mbakwe is crucial for Alabama, who already lost two defensive backs in the transfer portal with Jahlil Hurley and DeVonta Smith. Hurley committed to Kansas and Smith signed with Notre Dame in the transfer portal.

Mbakwe will have an opportunity to play on both sides of the ball at Alabama, joining his best friend and podcast co-host, Ryan Williams, in the wide receiver room while also playing as a defensive back with Alabama. Pete Nakos of On3 Sports reported that Mbakwe is seeking snaps on the offensive side of the ball.

The former five-star athlete played high school football at Clay-Chalkville High School, playing both quarterback and cornerback for the Cougars, leading them to a 6A State Championship in 2023.