3 Alabama Football Transfers Trending Up After Spring Start

The first spring practice window under Kalen DeBoer is a critical evaluation period, and several transfer portal additions are already separating themselves. Following a roster overhaul that saw 21 players enter the transfer portal and 13 arrive, early returns from March workouts point to three newcomers in particular who are seizing first-team reps and reshaping position battles. Their performance is a direct indicator of how Alabama's 2025 identity is being forged.

Ty Simpson: The Veteran QB Pushing for Immediate Impact

Western Kentucky transfer Ty Simpson has been the most conspicuous performer in the quarterback competition. The 6'2", 215-pound junior, who threw for 2,893 yards and 24 touchdowns with the Hilltoppers in 2023, has consistently worked with the first-team offense during the open viewing periods. His command of the huddle and quick release in DeBoer's up-tempo system have been noted by multiple beat reporters. Simpson's experience—22 career starts—is a tangible asset in a room that includes holdovers Dylan Lonergan and Austin Mack.

Offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan acknowledged the "visible comfort" Simpson has shown with the playbook's core concepts. While the competition remains open, Simpson's trajectory suggests he is the frontrunner to start the April 13th A-Day spring game. His presence has already altered the dynamic, providing a proven FBS-level passer who can stabilize the offense while the younger quarterbacks develop. His transfer from Western Kentucky to Alabama represents one of the most significant portal moves in the SEC this cycle.

Jaeden Roberts: Instant Credibility on the Offensive Line

The offensive line required immediate reinforcement, and Auburn transfer Jaeden Roberts is providing it. The 6'5", 325-pound guard has taken reps at both left and right guard with the first unit, showcasing the versatility that made him a 10-game starter for the Tigers in 2023. His physicality in run-blocking drills has been a point of emphasis for new offensive line coach Chris Kapilovic, who is installing a more zone-based scheme.

Roberts brings 736 career snaps of SEC experience, a commodity that cannot be overstated for a unit replacing three starters. His integration has allowed returning players like Kadyn Proctor to settle at tackle. Teammates have cited Roberts' vocal leadership and practice intensity as immediate culture setters. His successful transition across the Iron Bowl rivalry is a strong early win for DeBoer's staff in addressing the most pressing roster need.

Kendrick Law: The Versatile Weapon in a New Scheme

Georgia Tech transfer Kendrick Law is capitalizing on the new offensive scheme's demand for versatile skill players. The 5'11", 195-pound receiver/running back hybrid has been utilized in jet sweeps, screen passes, and as a downfield threat from the slot. In 2023, he recorded 427 all-purpose yards for the Yellow Jackets, but his skill set appears tailor-made for DeBoer's system, which historically maximizes players with his blend of speed and physicality.

Law has taken reps with the first-team in multiple personnel groupings, displacing some veterans. His ability to contribute on special teams as a return specialist further cements his value. Coaches have highlighted his yards-after-catch ability as a key differentiator. With Alabama seeking to replace the production of departed leaders like Jermaine Burton and Isaiah Bond, Law's ascending role suggests he will be a primary target in the 2025 passing attack.

What to Watch Next

The A-Day game on April 13th will be the first public litmus test for these transfers against a live defense. The performance of Simpson, Roberts, and Law will directly impact the post-spring depth chart, which DeBoer will release in late April. Furthermore, their integration is a case study for how the new staff is using the transfer portal—not just for depth, but for immediate, high-impact starters. The success of these three will be a benchmark for Alabama's portal strategy moving forward, especially as the staff continues to monitor the spring portal window (April 15-30) for additional needs at linebacker and defensive back. The foundation being laid now will define the Crimson Tide's ceiling in its new era.