Kalen DeBoer reveals conversation with Jaylen Mbakwe amid transfer saga
Jaylen Mbakwe had a whirlwind 24 hours earlier in the week. For a moment, the true freshman cornerback appeared to be leaving Alabama via the NCAA transfer portal. Mbakwe announced one day later that he would remain with the program, a big win for Kalen DeBoer and his staff.
Before officially deciding to stay in Tuscaloosa, there was a conversation between DeBoer and Mbakwe. DeBoer revealed what was discussed, saying the process was not complicated. Ultimately, the “love” Mbakwe has for Alabama is why he is not transferring.
“His conversation with me was that he wanted to come back. It’s not that complicated. The kid loves this place,” DeBoer said via Blake Byler of On3’s BOL. “… Some kids as they go through it realize what they want.”
Mbakwe played in all 12 games for Alabama this season as a cornerback. He recorded 15 tackles, a tackle for loss, two pass breakups, and even snagged an interception against Tennessee. Had the first-year player found himself on the open market, big-time programs would have been circling for his signature.
To keep up with the latest players on the move, check out On3’s Transfer Portal wire.
Cornerback is not the only position Mbakwe may be playing going forward either. On3’s Pete Nakos reported Alabama could look at getting the first-year player some time on the offensive end. He originally was recruited as a wide receiver before Nick Saban wanted him to play cornerback.
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Now, DeBoer is willing to let him potentially take snaps with the offense per Nakos. Potentially as early as the upcoming bowl game against Michigan.
“A source indicates to @On3sports that Jaylen Mbakwe is seeking some snaps on the offensive side of the ball, too,” Nakos said via X.
Mbakwe played high school football at Pinson (AL) Clay-Chalkville, where he was a Five-Star Plus+ prospect. He was the No. 16 overall recruit in the 2024 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.