Alabama Freshman All-American DB Caleb Downs to Enter Transfer Portal, per Report

The talented freshman led the team in tackles this season.

Alabama freshman All-American safety Caleb Downs is entering his name into the transfer portal, according to a report from ESPN’s Pete Thamel.

Downs, who was the recipient of the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award, started all 14 games for Alabama in 2023 and led the team with 107 total tackles. He also recorded two interceptions and four passes defended.

Downs is already viewed by scouts as one of the top prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft. As one of the top players in the transfer portal, he will immediately garner interest from some of the nation’s top programs, including rival Georgia, where former Alabama defensive backs coach Travaris Robinson just took a position on Kirby Smart’s staff.

Caleb Downs will reportedly explore a transfer from Alabama after a freshman All-American season :: Dale Zanine/USA TODAY Sports

Factor in Robinson’s move to Georgia with coach Nick Saban’s decision to retire, and it’s no secret why Downs is exploring his options for next season and beyond. While new coach Kalen DeBoer certainly made it a priority to keep Downs in a Crimson Tide uniform, the young safety will explore his options elsewhere instead.