Alabama players in transfer portal: 3 hot targets for SEC teams after Jeheim Oatis' Colorado move

Alabama football is witnessing a significant change, and coach Kalen DeBoer faces the challenge of navigating key player departures through the transfer portal while addressing the disappointment of being excluded from the College Football Playoff.

Among the recent high-profile departures, defensive lineman Jeheim Oatis has made headlines by transferring to the Colorado Buffaloes. Under coach Deion Sanders, Colorado has been active in the transfer portal. Oatis played in 29 games across three seasons at Alabama, recording 57 tackles and 1.5 sacks.

Below are three other Alabama players now in the transfer portal, presenting enticing options for SEC teams looking to bolster their rosters.

Three hot targets for SEC teams

1. Emmanuel Henderson, Wide Receiver

Emmanuel Henderson, a junior wide receiver, is among the latest Alabama players to enter the transfer portal. Henderson, a native of Alabama, spent three seasons with the Crimson Tide but struggled to establish himself as a key offensive weapon. During his college career, he caught just five passes, with four receptions for 82 yards coming this season.

Henderson’s standout moment came during Alabama’s clash with Georgia, where his 34-yard catch in the first quarter set up an early touchdown. Additionally, he served as a primary kick returner alongside Kendrick Law, showcasing his versatility on special teams.

2. Jaylen Mbakwe, Defensive Back

Freshman cornerback Jaylen Mbakwe is another prominent name in the transfer portal. A highly touted recruit, Mbakwe was ranked as a five-star prospect and the No. 12 player in the 2024 class by 247Sports. During his debut season, he appeared in 10 games, registering 15 tackles, one tackle-for-loss, one interception, and two pass deflections.

Mbakwe announced his decision to transfer via an emotional statement on Instagram, expressing gratitude to Alabama for his growth and memorable experiences.

"I would like to begin by thanking God for the gift of being able to play football. My time at the University of Alabama has been an unforgettable journey, filled with growth, invaluable experiences, and relationships I will cherish forever," Mbakwe said in a statement.

"To the Crimson Tide, your passion and loyalty have been a constant source of inspiration. I'm grateful for each and every one of you," he said.

He cited personal and professional development as the driving factors behind his decision to seek opportunities elsewhere.

"With that being said, I have made the decision to enter the transfer portal with three years of eligibility remaining. This was not an easy decision, but I believe it's the best step for my personal and professional development and the future I'm working towards for myself and my family," Mbakwe added.

3. Damon Payne Jr., Defensive Lineman

Damon Payne Jr., a redshirt junior defensive lineman, has also entered the transfer portal, as reported by CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz. Payne, who recently graduated from Alabama, brings significant experience with 32 game appearances over four seasons.

This year, he made his first career start against South Carolina, contributing 14 tackles and a fumble recovery in the Tide’s win over Mercer.

As a graduate transfer, Payne will be immediately eligible to play under NCAA rules, making him an appealing option for teams in need of a seasoned defensive presence.