Alabama freshman All-American S Caleb Downs enters portal

Field Level Media|published: Wed 17th January, 12:50 2024

Dec 2, 2023; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart embraces Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Caleb Downs (2) after the SEC championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. credits: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Alabama freshman safety Caleb Downs entered the transfer portal, according to the media company operated by his father, former NFL running back Gary Downs.

The All-SEC selection won the Shaun Alexander Award as national freshman of the year and is considering Georgia, Notre Dame and others who were involved in his initial recruiting, according to Deuce Recruiting, owned by Gary Downs.

Caleb Downs could also return to the Crimson Tide but is expected to take an official visit to Georgia, which is near his hometown.

Downs led Alabama with 107 tackles in 2023, adding two interceptions and punt return for a touchdown.

New head coach Kalen DeBoer's defense has been hard hit by transfer portal entrants since he was hired to replace Nick Saban. Another safety, Jake Pope, transferred back to his home state of Georgia after playing 11 games on special teams at Alabama in 2023.

Linebacker Shawn Murphy became the fifth Crimson Tide transfer to commit to Florida State on Monday. Cornerback Earl Little Jr. and running back Roydell Williams also joined the Seminoles from Alabama.

—Field Level Media