Nick Saban on how Alabama utilizes the NCAA transfer portal

The NCAA transfer portal has become a valuable resource for coaches across college athletics, even Alabama head coach Nick Saban. Despite the constant stream of five-star prospects coming through Tuscaloosa, Alabama, an extra dash of talent across the roster never hurts.

However, Nick Saban believes that the transfer portal brings many dangers. Using the resource responsibly and accurately can turn in into a program helping asset.

“I think you have to look at it as, whether you agree with it or disagree with it, you have to look at it as a source of bringing talented players to your team,” Saban said. “My philosophy has been, if a player can help our team be more successful and he’s got the right kind of character and attitude and he wants to buy into the things the way we try to do them here to help him be successful, then we’re certainly going to consider every avenue of how you can bring players to your team.”

Over the past several seasons, Alabama has brought top-level talent into the program. Florida State transfer Landon Dickerson anchored a national championship team at center, helping win the Rimington Trophy and the Joe Moore Award. This season, Tennessee transfer Henry To’o To’o and Ohio State transfer Jameson Williams have become key contributors on both sides of the ball.

“We still believe in young players that we can develop in our program, but at the same time, I think you have to consider this no different than a free agent pool if you were in the NFL,” Saban said. “It’s a pool of players that are available that can help your team.”

Nick Saban on Jameson Williams

The Bryce Young to Jameson Williams connection has been electric this season for Alabama. Williams has been his top receiver, averaging 20.6 yards per catch with 61 receptions, 1,261 yards, and 13 touchdowns.

The connection between the two stars is also huge for Alabama this season. Alabama head coach Nick Saban believes that both Young and Williams are responsible for that, as both have done everything they need to do to be in a position to succeed.

“First of all, Bryce has done a really good job managing the entire offense in terms of whether it’s getting us in the right play, throwing the ball to the right place, trying to get us in the right protection. He does a really great job at preparing in the game,” Saban said when asked about the connection between Young and Williams.