Alabama Football’s Offseason Changes Underway on The Joe Gaither Show

Coaching Staff Overhaul

One of the most impactful changes is the overhaul of the coaching staff. Head Coach Kalen DeBoer, who took the helm in January 2024, is actively reshaping his team to align with his vision for the program. Notable departures include:

• Holmon Wiggins: The Assistant Head Coach of Offense and Wide Receivers Coach accepted a position at Texas A&M.
• Coleman Hutzler: Former Outside Linebackers Coach and Special Teams Coordinator, now serving as the Defensive Coordinator at Mississippi State.
• Kevin Steele: The Defensive Coordinator announced his retirement.
• Travaris Robinson: The Cornerbacks Coach joined the coaching staff at Georgia.
• Tommy Rees: The Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach transitioned to the NFL, joining the Cleveland Browns.
• Eric Wolford: The Offensive Line Coach returned to Kentucky to resume his previous role.
• Joe Cox: The Tight Ends Coach accepted a position at Ole Miss.
• Robert Bala: The Safeties and Inside Linebackers Coach moved to Washington.

In response to these departures, Coach DeBoer has made strategic hires to bolster the coaching staff:

• JaMarcus Shephard: Appointed as the new Wide Receivers Coach, bringing experience from his tenure at Washington.
• Christian Robinson: Hired as the Outside Linebackers Coach and Special Teams Coordinator, previously serving at Florida.
• Kane Wommack: Takes over as Defensive Coordinator, formerly the head coach at South Alabama.
• Maurice Linguist: Joins as the Cornerbacks Coach, bringing expertise from his head coaching role at Buffalo.
• Nick Sheridan: Steps in as Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach, previously the Tight Ends Coach at Washington.
• Chris Kapilovic: Appointed as Offensive Line Coach, coming from Michigan State.
• Bryan Ellis: Takes on the role of Tight Ends Coach, formerly the Offensive Coordinator at Georgia Southern.
• Colin Hitschler: Hired as Safeties and Inside Linebackers Coach, previously at Wisconsin.

These strategic appointments aim to infuse fresh perspectives and expertise into the program, setting the stage for a revitalized approach in the upcoming season.

Player Movements and Transfer Portal Activity

The offseason has also been marked by significant player movements, with several key athletes entering the transfer portal or declaring for the NFL Draft. Notably:

• Jalen Milroe: The starting quarterback for the past two seasons, has declared for the NFL Draft, leaving a pivotal position open for competition.
• Justice Haynes: The running back, who averaged 5.7 yards per carry and recorded seven rushing touchdowns in 2024, has transferred to Michigan.
• Isaiah Bond: A wide receiver, transferred to Texas, seeking a more prominent role in their offense.
• Jaylen Mbakwe: A freshman cornerback and five-star recruit, entered the transfer portal after participating in 11 of 12 games in his first season.

To address these departures, Alabama has been proactive in the transfer market, securing commitments from:

• Dre’lyn Washington: A running back from Louisiana, bringing two years of eligibility and a proven track record.
• Domani Jackson: A cornerback from USC, expected to bolster the secondary with his athleticism and coverage skills.
• LT Overton: A defensive lineman from Texas A&M, adding depth and versatility to the defensive front.
• Naquil Betrand: An offensive lineman from Texas A&M, aiming to strengthen the offensive line unit.
• Austin Mack: A quarterback from Washington, adding competition and depth to the quarterback room.
• Parker Brailsford: An offensive lineman from Washington, expected to contribute to the offensive line’s performance.
• Keon Sabb: A safety from Clemson, bringing talent and experience to the defensive backfield.
• Josh Cuevas: A tight end from Washington, anticipated to be a reliable target in the passing game.
• Graham Nicholson: A kicker from Miami (OH), aiming to solidify the special teams unit.
• Kameron Howard: A defensive back from Charlotte, adding depth to the secondary.
• DaShawn Jones: A defensive back from Wake Forest, expected to compete for a starting role.
• Zakee Wheatley: A safety from Penn State, bringing additional experience to the defense.
• Josh Fryar: An offensive lineman from Ohio State, aiming to enhance the offensive line’s capabilities.

These acquisitions reflect a strategic effort to address key areas and maintain the program’s competitive edge.

Quarterback Competition

With Jalen Milroe’s departure, the quarterback position is a focal point of the offseason. The primary candidates vying for the starting role include:

• Ty Simpson: A redshirt sophomore and