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Alabama’s roster is shifting again as the program reels from a lopsided College Football Playoff loss to Indiana. The Tide now face new personnel questions after a veteran starter on the offensive line entered the transfer portal, adding urgency to an offseason already focused on repair and reinvention.
Veteran right tackle Wilkin Formby heads to the portal
Right tackle Wilkin Formby officially entered the transfer portal on Sunday, sources report. The move removes a seasoned blocker from Alabama’s starting unit as the staff evaluates depth and continuity.
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- Games started: 14 starts this past season.
- Total snaps: 1,070 snaps across 27 career games.
- Position: Primarily right tackle, with two starts at that spot in 2024.
ESPN reporter Pete Thamel shared the news on X. Given Formby’s experience, he is expected to draw interest from other Power 4 programs seeking immediate line help.
Immediate gap on the offensive line and how Alabama might respond
Alabama must now identify a replacement who can protect the quarterback and anchor running lanes. Depth could be tested early in spring drills and fall camp.
Options the staff will likely explore
- Internal candidates stepping into a starting role.
- Transfers with Power 5 experience who can start right away.
- Recruiting targets who might compete for the position.
Replacing 1,070 snaps is not simply about finding size. Coaches will look for footwork, consistency in pass sets, and run-blocking power.
How the CFP loss amplified roster questions
The Tide’s 38-3 defeat to Indiana in the CFP quarterfinals exposed weaknesses that go beyond one game. Alabama managed just 193 total yards and was forced to make in-game adjustments, including a change at quarterback.
Starter Ty Simpson suffered an injury and was replaced during the contest. That sequence highlighted the need for both depth and playmakers who can respond under pressure.
Head coach Kalen DeBoer was frank in his assessment after the loss, noting the opponent executed at a high level and put Alabama on its heels.
More departures: defense and receiver spots see exits
Formby’s portal entry is part of a broader roster turnover this week. Defensive lineman Keon Keeley and wide receiver Rico Scott also entered the portal, according to reports.
- Keon Keeley: Defensive standout who has attracted attention from multiple programs.
- Rico Scott: Receiver whose exit was first reported by On3.
Those departures add to the list of positions the staff must address in the coming weeks.
What the Tide’s offseason priorities look like now
Expect Alabama to be active in the transfer portal and in recruiting. The staff will try to mix experienced transfers with youth from the recruiting classes.
- Target proven linemen who can step in immediately.
- Look for depth on the defensive front after Keeley’s exit.
- Secure playmakers in the receiver room to ease pressure on the QB.
Spring practice and the early transfer market will be vital windows for Alabama to shore up its roster and retool before the next season.
