Report: Alabama DB Caleb Downs to Enter Transfer Portal

Downs was one of the Crimson Tide's best defensive players as a freshman this past season.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Alabama's roster took a massive hit on Wednesday morning, with All-American freshman defensive back Caleb Downs expected to enter the transfer portal, per a report from On3.

Downs would enter the portal during the 30-day window that opened after former Alabama head coach Nick Saban announced his retirement last week.

In 2023, Downs had one of the most impressive seasons by any freshman Saban has coached. He totaled 107 tackles, becoming the first freshman in school history to lead the team in tackles. The next-closest Alabama player to Downs in tackles was Deontae Lawson, with 67. He also added a forced fumble and two interceptions.

The accolades Downs received at season's end were seemingly never-ending. He was named SEC Freshman of the Year by the Associated Press and SEC coaches, named a Freshman All-American, and was selected as the the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year by the FWAA, given to the best freshman in all of college football. 

He was also named a second team All-American by both Sporting News and the AP, the only freshman in the country named a first or second team All-American.

Defensive back is the position that has seen the most loss since the season's end and Saban's exit, and Downs' loss would be the biggest of them all. Downs would be the seventh defensive back to enter the transfer portal, joining Earl Little, Kristian Story, Jake Pope, Dezz Ricks, Antonio Kite and Trey Amos.

Downs would still have the option to return to Alabama, but it would take a herculean recruiting effort from head coach Kalen DeBoer and his staff.

Coming and Going: Alabama 2024 Offseason Roster Tracker