Alabama lands commitment from elite transfer running back, potential starter in 2026
By Rolando Rosa
Published:
Alabama is getting some help in the running game through the transfer portal. According to On3, former NC State running back Hollywood Smothers is transferring to Alabama.
The 5-foot-11, 195-pound Smothers began his career at Oklahoma before playing the last 2 seasons at NC State. Smothers is rated by 247Sports as the No. 2 running back and No. 29 overall player in the transfer portal.
Smothers had a breakthrough season in 2025, amassing 939 yards and 6 touchdowns on the ground. Smothers also caught 37 passes for 189 yards and a touchdown. Smothers rushed for a career-high 164 yards in NC State’s 34-24 road victory at Wake Forest on Sept. 11.
Overall, Smothers has rushed for 1,552 yards and 12 touchdowns while having 57 receptions for 453 yards and 3 scores during his career.
Coming out of high school, the Charlotte, North Carolina native was regarded by 247Sports as the No. 21 in-state prospect and No. 40 running back in the nation.
Alabama’s season came to an end after a 38-3 loss against undefeated Indiana in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals rom the Rose Bowl.
