The tide of change in Alabama football is still surging following Nick Saban’s unexpected retirement. While the decision to appoint former Washington head coach Kalen DeBoer as his successor was widely lauded as a strategic move and possibly the best fit for Alabama at the time, the departure of the coaching legend has prompted some of Saban’s recruits to explore alternative paths.
When a coach leaves a program, players have a 30-day window to venture into the transfer portal, and one such player, Isaiah Bond, swiftly made the move to the University of Texas after Saban’s exit. Now, another rising star, true freshman safety Caleb Downs, has also entered the transfer portal.
Despite being just a true freshman this season, Downs made an immediate impact, solidifying his status as one of Alabama’s defensive standouts. He led the team in tackles, snatched two interceptions, and even dazzled the crowd with a punt return touchdown. But these accomplishments only scratch the surface of Caleb Downs’ potential.
As expected, there’s no shortage of suitors vying for Caleb Downs’ talents. The burning question now is: where will Downs find his ideal next destination? As he evaluates his options, two prominent programs have emerged as frontrunners.
Amidst this transition, it’s noteworthy that the digital realm is abuzz with speculation and eagerness about Caleb Downs’ impending decision. As @BrettGreenberg_ tweeted, the college football community is on edge, eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Caleb Downs’ football journey.
Caleb Downs stats + awards (through SECCG)
99 tackles (1st on UA, 4th in SEC)
2 INTs
PR TD
FF
SEC Freshman of the Year
SEC Newcomer of the Year
1st Team All-SEC
1st Team Freshman All-SEC
1st Team All-American (PFF)
2nd Team All-American (AP, USA Today)
2nd Team All-SEC (AP) pic.twitter.com/2KMRGzNkki— Brett Greenberg (@BrettGreenberg_) December 27, 2023