Alabama’s head coach Kalen DeBoer addressed the situation regarding 5-star recruit Jaheim Oatis entering the transfer portal in a press conference on Monday. The star defensive tackle, after battling injuries this season, has decided to sit out the rest of 2024 and explore new opportunities elsewhere.
Oatis will redshirt this season before officially entering the portal. Alabama’s defensive coordinator Kane Wommack confirmed the news during a press conference, citing that injuries have kept Oatis from performing at the level expected.
“My focus is on the players that are going to do everything they can to help us win football games,” Wommack said [H/t Alabama Rivals]. “So that’s really where my focus is right now.”
Meanwhile, DeBoer acknowledged the complexity of Oatis' situation:
"Felt like it was going that way,” he said. “I think the thing you also have to understand is there's other elements. There's health, there's life elements. I love these guys. They work hard." [Timestamp - 15:52]
“Jeheim's choices and things, there's reasons for that, right? He has notified and continued to be in communication with us. Kind of felt like it was maybe going that direction, not just today or yesterday. ... We move forward with the guys that really are able to help us win and focused on our program."
Oatis himself made the decision public on social media, in his post, DT mentioned his goal to find a new program where he can bring "NFL-caliber" talent and help a future team compete for championships.
“As I look forward to the next chapter, I am excited to find a new home where I can bring NFL-caliber play and help my future team compete for championships,” Jaheim Oatis saud in a post on Instagram.
During his three years with the Crimson Tide, Jaheim Oatis started 13 games but struggled in 2024 due to ongoing injuries, playing in just five games. Despite starting strong early in his career, his numbers have dipped, with only 28 tackles, one for loss and half a sack over two seasons—significantly less than his 2022 output.
Jaheim Oatis has decided to redshirt, the news comes after Kalen DeBoer’s Bama hard-fought loss to Vanderbilt
Alabama defensive lineman Jaheim Oatis has decided to redshirt and transfer after this season. His announcement follows Alabama's tough 40-35 loss to Vanderbilt on Saturday, where the Crimson Tide struggled to contain the Commodores' offense. Vanderbilt outpaced Alabama, racking up 418 total yards and 26 first downs while converting 12 of 18 third-down attempts.
It was a challenging day for Kalen DeBoer’s Alabama defense, which couldn't find its rhythm against the Commodores.
Alabama Crimson Tide Fan? Check out the latest Crimson Tide depth chart, schedule, and team roster updates all in one place!