With spring practice now behind them, Alabama football is turning its focus to the upcoming spring transfer portal window, which opens Wednesday. Crimson Tide players will soon have the option to explore opportunities elsewhere if they choose.
On Monday, Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer was asked about how he and his staff are approaching the portal period. He praised the mindset of his players but also offered a cautionary message about what might lie ahead for those considering a transfer.
“The people you want in your program—whether players or coaches—are the ones who understand what they have here at Alabama,” DeBoer said. “It’s a special place, from the resources and support staff to the elite coaching staff. The experience here is something that shouldn’t be taken for granted.
“There are stories of guys transferring in and realizing how great things are, and even some who left and later regretted it. The grass isn’t always greener.”
One such example is offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor, who transferred to Iowa after last season before reentering the portal and returning to Alabama.
As for the staff’s role during the portal window, DeBoer said their job remains consistent.
“Our foundation doesn’t change—we coach our guys,” he said. “We focus on adding to their value, showing them they have a meaningful role, and helping them grow. When players see that, and know we care about them and need them to reach our team goals, it matters.
“They also have individual goals, and we want to help them reach those too. This time of year, anything can happen. Last year, we didn’t lose any players we expected to be with us in the fall. Hopefully, that’s the case again—but you never know with the portal.”
Leave a Reply