Peyton Woodyard, a true freshman safety, entered the transfer portal during the most unexpected loss for the Alabama football team this transfer window.
Woodyard, a top-150 recruit and the seventh-ranked safety in the class, was a four-star recruit in this recruiting class. With a no-contact tag when he logs into the transfer portal, it’s likely that he has already chosen his future program.
Given that Woodyard only participated in spring practices as an early enrollee before quitting the program, the move is startling and indicative of the times. The rise of Bray Hubbard and Red Morgan, who have advanced up the depth chart with strong springs, may have contributed to some of the exodus.
Another safety that the Alabama football club added through the transfer portal might have contributed to Woodyard’s departure. Charlotte Safety Kameron Howard, who just finished a fantastic rookie year, was added by the Crimson Tide. Howard has 38 tackles, two interceptions, and a pass defense in 2023. After losing Jaylen Key and Caleb Downs this offseason, the Tide will get some experience at safety with the acquisition of Howard.
Malachi Moore, an experienced starter for the Alabama football team, will compete with Howard, Tony Mitchell, DeVonta Smith, Bray Hubbard, and Zay Mincey for the remaining safety spots.
indication of how Alabama Football is evolving
The practice of a true freshman leaving before playing a complete season is one that will grow in popularity as long as NIL and transfer regulations are altered. It’s becoming more and more common to enroll at a school where you may play from the first year on because of the immediate transfer option and the opportunity to generate money while doing so. This departure is perhaps more related to Woodyard’s lack of playing time in his early career than it is to Kalen DeBoer and the new staff.
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