Alabama football outside linebacker Keanu Koht has submitted paperwork to enter the NCAA transfer portal, according to A&P Sports Agency, which confirmed the news to AL.com. ESPN’s Pete Thamel initially reported the development.
Koht, a redshirt junior, has not suited up for Alabama’s last two games, victories over Mercer and LSU.
“He’s suspended right now,” head coach Kalen DeBoer said ahead of the Mercer game. “I’m not going to get into the length or anything like that.”
Before his suspension, Koht served as a depth player on Alabama’s defense. He concludes his season with five tackles, a fumble recovery, and half a sack. He will officially be eligible to enter the transfer portal when it opens on Dec. 9, with a 30-day window for transfers following that date.
A four-star recruit in the 2021 class per 247Sports composite rankings, Koht redshirted his freshman season and dealt with injuries throughout his time at Alabama. Despite his challenges, he earned praise from the coaching staff during spring practices.
“Athletically, he’s a freak,” defensive coordinator Kane Wommack said in March. “The way he bends off the edge, his explosiveness, and his high motor are impressive. He’s also grasping our schematics well.”
Koht’s departure adds to the challenges facing Alabama’s outside linebacker unit, which recently lost starter Que Robinson to a season-ending injury against LSU. Players like Qua Russaw and Yhonzae Pierre have stepped up, with inside linebacker Jihaad Campbell also rotating to the outside when needed.
Alabama’s next game is scheduled for Saturday at Oklahoma, with kickoff set for 6:30 p.m. CT on ABC.
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