According to ESPN's Pete Thamel, the post-Saban Alabama football talent exodus continues as freshman quarterback Julian Sain is entering the transfer portal.
Sain, the top-ranked QB in the 2024 class, was the rare gem of Alabama's current freshman class. According to Thamel, he committed to play for Nick Saban in early January.
Source: University of Alabama freshman quarterback Julian Sain, the top-ranked quarterback in the Class of 2024, plans to enter the NCAA transfer portal. Sane is expected to begin his transfer process on Friday, sources said. pic.twitter.com/TVpwQth7ic
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 19, 2024
The Crimson Tide did manage to keep incumbent quarterback Jalen Milroe, but Thayne joins a long list of impact players undergoing a mass exodus. (Related: Kliff Kingsbury Landbears almost certain to interview No. 1 draft pick, sources say: report)
Since Saban left, Alabama has lost a ton of starters to the transfer portal, including a strong safety. caleb downs Receivers Isaiah Bond and Malik Benson.
Starting center Seth McLaughlin also ran away Ohio State and another top 2024 recruit, five-star receiver Ryan Williams, has decommitted from the rival Auburn Tigers.
In total, 28 former Crimson Tide players have entered the transfer portal. according to Many players left before Saban announced his retirement, writes Sports Illustrated, but the loss of talent will leave a big hole in the roster.
New head coach Karen DeBoer will be instrumental in rebuilding the program. He accomplished that in Washington, turning the Huskies from a four-win program to a national title runner-up in just two years in 2021.
But this exodus is forcing “Bama” fans to deal with a bigger problem.Alabama football has been synonymous with winning since the days of Bear Bryant, but in recent years, Alabama football has become was Nick Saban. His efforts in recruiting were unparalleled. No matter how well Alabama does over the next few years, their brand of football and recruiting class will be markedly different under DeBoer.
