After missing three straight practices since last Saturday, it appears that redshirt freshman Kendall Sheffield won't be returning to Tuscaloosa. 

According to an ESPN report, the Texas native has already asked and received his release from The University of Alabama. A member of Sheffield's family confirmed that with ESPN. The release stipulates that the defensive back can't transfer to another SEC school.

The former 5-star recruit and top 50 player nationally appeared to be one of the young players on the verge of a breakout season with the Alabama defense. He had been working occasionally with the first team during fall camp so this move is a bit confusing.

His departure means Nick Saban has lost five total players since June and four players from his 2015 class. Safety Shawn Burgess-Becker left in June while linebacker Adonis Thomas in July. In August alone, Alabama has lost Daylon Charlot, Maurice Smith, and now Sheffield.

Saban isn't scheduled to meet with the media until after Saturday's scrimmage, but this is what he said about Sheffield on Tuesday.

 

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