Keanu Koht, an outside linebacker for the Alabama Crimson Tide, officially announced his departure from the program on Tuesday. The redshirt junior expressed deep gratitude for his time at the University of Alabama and acknowledged the support of coaches, staff, teammates, and fans throughout his journey. Despite his thanks, Koht’s statement made it clear that he had reached a personal crossroads, deciding to enter the transfer portal after three seasons at Alabama.
In his farewell message, Koht reflected on the significant experiences he gained while playing for the Crimson Tide. He highlighted the invaluable lessons, relationships, and personal growth that defined his time at Alabama. However, the outside linebacker also revealed that after careful consideration, he felt he had “outgrown the shoes” he once wore in Tuscaloosa. This introspection led to his decision to seek new opportunities elsewhere in college football. Koht confirmed that he would have two years of eligibility remaining, allowing him to find a fresh environment in which to further his career.
Koht’s departure adds to the challenges Alabama’s defense faces heading into the final stretch of the 2024 season. At the edge rusher position, known as the “wolf” in Alabama’s defense, the Crimson Tide was already dealing with significant injuries. Star player Que Robinson was lost for the season due to an injury sustained during the LSU game, which left the team with even fewer options at a crucial position. As a result, Qua Russaw and Yhonzae Pierre will be tasked with taking on more snaps, leaving Alabama’s depth at linebacker even more stretched. This is a particularly concerning issue for defensive coordinator Kalen DeBoer, as the linebacker position is integral to Alabama’s defensive strategy, especially in high-pressure situations.
Koht’s time at Alabama was marked by struggles with injuries that hindered his ability to consistently contribute on the field during his first few seasons. Despite being a highly touted four-star prospect in the 2021 recruiting class, the outside linebacker faced challenges that kept him from realizing his full potential in his early years with the Crimson Tide. However, he did manage to finish the 2024 season with five total tackles, a fumble recovery, and half a sack, showing glimpses of the player he could become.
Throughout his time at Alabama, Koht became a well-respected member of the team, known for his work ethic and commitment to improving, both on and off the field. His decision to leave was not made lightly, as he acknowledged the emotional weight of saying goodbye to the university and program that helped shape his growth as a person and athlete. But ultimately, Koht felt that in order to continue progressing in his football career, he needed a new chapter.
Koht ended his statement by expressing his continued gratitude for the Alabama community. He emphasized that the wisdom and values he had gained would remain with him as he embarked on the next phase of his journey. With his decision to enter the transfer portal, Koht now moves on to pursue new opportunities, hoping to build on his experiences at Alabama and continue his development as a football player.
