Alabama loses starting defensive player to the transfer portal, per report
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Alabama edge rusher Qua Russaw has decided to enter the transfer portal, according to a report.
That news comes from 247Sports’ Matt Zenitz and Chris Hummer. Russaw was a starter for the Crimson Tide this season and was a big part of their defense off the edge.
Russaw battled injuries this season but still managed to make an impact. He finished the year with 14 tackles and 1 sack. During his redshirt freshman campaign in 2024, Russaw totaled 36 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 2 interceptions and 1 forced fumble. Made 9 starts during his Alabama career.
Russaw initially signed with Alabama as a 4-star prospect in the class of 2023, but he was close to 5-star status. He was the No. 33 overall player in the country for that recruiting cycle, per 247Sports Composite rankings.
Russaw is one of Alabama’s biggest transfer portal losses so far. He figures to be a significant target for other big-time programs who are looking for edge rushers this offseason.
Softening the blow a bit for Alabama is the emergence of fellow 2023 signee Yhonzae Pierre, who led Alabama this year in pressures (45), hurries (34) and pass rush win rate (12.1%), according to Pro Football Focus. Pierre figures to be the leader of Alabama’s pass rush in 2026, should he decide to forego the NFL for another year in college.
Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.
