Alabama Football Roster Reset: What the Tide Lost and What’s NextÖ
The Alabama Crimson Tide are entering a new era under head coach Kalen DeBoer, and with that comes one of the most significant roster overhauls in recent memory. After years of dominance under Nick Saban, the 2025 Alabama football team is in transition, facing major changes on both sides of the ball.
Key Departures
Alabama’s offseason exodus started with the expected — NFL Draft departures. Quarterback Jalen Milroe, wide receiver Jermaine Burton, and cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry all declared for the draft, leaving huge holes in leadership and production. But the more surprising hits came from the transfer portal.
Perhaps the most impactful loss was five-star safety Caleb Downs, who transferred to Ohio State. Offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor, who had returned briefly after a short stint in the portal, flipped again — this time to Iowa. Other key names like linebacker Jihaad Campbell, defensive back Trey Amos, and edge rusher Keon Keeley also moved on, making it clear that the roster reset wasn’t going to be simple.
In total, more than 20 players departed via the transfer portal. It’s the kind of turnover that would cripple most programs. But Alabama isn’t most programs.
Roster Holes to Fill
DeBoer and his staff immediately got to work, using the portal themselves to fill critical needs. Washington transfer quarterback Austin Mack and former five-star WR Germie Bernard lead a group of incoming players with strong ties to DeBoer’s system from his time at Washington.
Alabama also added depth in the secondary with transfers like Kamari Ramsey from UCLA and added linebacker help via the portal, but some positions — especially in the trenches — still raise concerns.
The offensive line, long a strength under Saban, is relatively unproven. With Proctor gone and veterans departing, DeBoer will likely lean on younger players to step up quickly. On defense, replacing the presence of players like Dallas Turner and Justin Eboigbe will be a challenge.
What’s Next for the Tide?
Alabama’s 2025 recruiting class remains strong, currently ranked in the top 10 nationally. But fans accustomed to top-three finishes will notice the drop-off. That’s natural with a coaching change, but the pressure will be on DeBoer and his staff to show that they can both recruit and develop talent at an elite level.
The good news? The talent pool in Tuscaloosa is still deep. Players like linebacker Deontae Lawson, cornerback Domani Jackson, and wide receiver Kendrick Law are expected to take on bigger roles. If Mack can grasp the offense quickly and find chemistry with his receivers, Alabama could still contend in the SEC.
This season will test Alabama in a way it hasn’t been in over a decade. But if Kalen DeBoer can navigate this transition, the Tide may not be down for long — just reloading, once again.