Alabama loses another starting defensive player to the transfer portal
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Alabama defensive lineman James Smith has decided to enter the transfer portal, according to a report.
That’s per 247Sports’ Matt Zenitz and Chris Hummer. As the report notes, Smith is a former 5-star recruit who made a big impact on Alabama‘s defense during the 2025 season. He recorded 26 tackles and 2.5 sacks during the most recent campaign.
Smith is the second Alabama starter in as many days to enter the transfer portal, joining edge rusher Qua Russaw.
Smith is also an Alabama native. He attended Carver High School in Montgomery. He initially signed with Alabama as the No. 28 overall player in the nation for the class of 2023, per 247Sports Composite rankings.
Smith is coming off of his best season yet with Alabama. His 6.5 tackles for loss in 2025 represented a career-high. According to Pro Football Focus, Smith led all Alabama interior defensive linemen with 422 snaps this season. He was credited with 11 pressures and 6 quarterback hurries.
Smith will have 1 season of eligibility remaining at his next destination.
Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.
