So surprising just days before Alabama’s crucial matchup with Oklahoma, linebacker Keanu Koht, a five-star recruit from the 2021 class, has announced his decision to enter the NCAA transfer portal. This move comes amid a season full of change for the Crimson Tide, as they are on the cusp of securing a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP). Despite the loss of Koht, the team remains poised to finish strong, with a playoff berth within reach.
Keanu Koht’s departure is notable not just because of his high recruiting ranking, but also due to the timing. As Alabama heads to Oklahoma for a significant game that could determine their CFP fate, losing a key player like Koht so close to such a pivotal moment raises questions. Koht, a five-star linebacker from the 2021 class, was expected to be a major contributor for the Crimson Tide. However, his tenure at Alabama has been far less impactful than many had anticipated. Over the past three seasons, Koht has only played in 14 games, with just seven appearances this season. In those games, he has recorded five total tackles, a far cry from the expectations placed upon him as one of the top recruits in his class.
The departure of Koht is not an isolated incident. Following the offseason departure of long-time head coach Nick Saban, there has been an exodus of players who were brought in under his leadership. This pattern of roster turnover, which is common after a coaching change, is particularly evident among high-profile recruits who have found themselves on the bench more often than they would have liked. The Crimson Tide are now under the leadership of Kalen DeBoer, who has been tasked with continuing Alabama’s football dynasty. While some may be concerned about the impact of these departures, it is important to recognize that Alabama still has a wealth of talent on the roster and the chance to achieve its goal of making the CFP.
DeBoer, who is in his first season as head coach, has done well to maintain the team’s competitiveness. The Crimson Tide’s recent dominant victory over LSU has put them in a favorable position heading into their final games of the season. A win against Oklahoma this weekend, followed by a victory in the Iron Bowl against Auburn, could secure their spot in the CFP, where they will have the opportunity to contend for another national championship. While Koht’s departure may be seen as a setback for the defense, it does not appear to have derailed the team’s momentum.
As for Koht’s future, his entry into the transfer portal raises the possibility of him seeking a fresh start at another program where he may have a better opportunity for playing time. With the portal window set to open in early December, more players from across the country—especially those on playoff-contending teams—are expected to follow suit and make similar decisions about their futures. For Koht, the move could represent a chance to fulfill the potential that made him one of the most sought-after recruits in the 2021 class.
In the grand scheme of Alabama’s season, the loss of Koht may not have a lasting impact, but it is a reminder of the challenges that come with coaching changes and roster turnover. As Kalen DeBoer looks to guide Alabama back to the top of college football, the team’s remaining players will need to step up, particularly in the defensive front, as they look to close out the regular season on a high note and secure a spot in the College Football Playoff.
