Alabama football recently received significant news regarding running back Justice Haynes’ status in the transfer portal. Haynes, a former top-35 recruit from the 2023 class, rushed for 448 yards and seven touchdowns in 2024, averaging 5.7 yards per carry. Under new head coach Kalen DeBoer, Alabama has faced a disappointing season, falling short of the 12-team College Football Playoff despite returning Heisman-caliber quarterback Jalen Milroe.
As Alabama prepares for the ReliaQuest Bowl against Michigan on December 31, they are hoping to avoid becoming the first Crimson Tide team since 2007 to win fewer than ten games. However, it appears they will do so without Haynes, as 247Sports’ National College Football Writer Chris Hummer reports that Haynes has officially entered the transfer portal.
Alabama football’s future is suddenly a bit murky
Justice Haynes, who was the second-string running back for Alabama in 2024, has entered the transfer portal. The sophomore finished third on the team in rushing, behind starting running back Jam Miller and quarterback Jalen Milroe. A potential factor behind Haynes’ decision could be that Miller had nearly twice as many carries but averaged a yard less per carry than Haynes. Haynes’ best performance came against Western Kentucky, where he rushed for 102 yards on four carries and scored a touchdown.
This loss is a setback for Alabama, which continues to have high expectations for future titles. The positive news is that the Crimson Tide is bringing in the third-ranked recruiting class for 2025, including 4-star running back Aklyin Dear, who will bolster the team’s backfield.
Additionally, Alabama will welcome 5-star quarterback Keelon Russell, a dual-threat prospect who flipped his commitment from SMU. Russell, ranked 14th overall in the class of 2025, could serve as a successor to Milroe if the senior opts for the NFL Draft, though Milroe’s decision is still pending. If Milroe returns, Alabama will remain a strong contender for the national title.
Although losing Haynes is a blow, Alabama has weathered similar departures before. Under Nick Saban, the program has built a legacy on a dominant ground game, with Heisman-winning tailbacks like Mark Ingram and Derrick Henry leading the way. Kalen DeBoer will need to maintain a strong backfield if Alabama is to reclaim its top position in both the SEC and college football.