Alabama LB Keanu Koht files paperwork to enter transfer portal
Alabama linebacker Keanu Koht has reportedly filed paperwork to enter the transfer portal, his agents told ESPN’s Pete Thamel. He expects to have two seasons of eligibility remaining.
Shortly after the news broke, Koht and his agency shared a statement via Instagram.
“Dear Bama Nation,” the statement started. “I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been a part of my journey here at the University of Alabama – my coaches, staff, teammates, and supporters. The lessons I’ve learned, the relationships I’ve built, and the experiences I’ve gained during my time here are truly priceless, and I will carry them with me throughout my life.
“After careful reflection and consideration, I’ve come to realize that I’ve outgrown the shoes I once wore here. With that in mind, I have made the decision to enter my name into the transfer portal, with two years of eligibility remaining. This was not an easy choice, but it’s one I believe is best for my future and personal growth.
“To the Alabama community, thank you for your unwavering support and encouragement throughout my time here. The wisdom, knowledge, and values I’ve gained will always remain with me as I continue my journey. Thank, you Keanu Koht”
A redshirt junior, Koht has missed Alabama’s last two games, and on Monday of Mercer week, Crimson Tide head coach Kalen DeBoer announced the linebacker had been suspended.
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“He wasn’t with us, and he’s suspended right now,” DeBoer said. “I’m not gonna get into length or anything like that, but he won’t be with us this weekend.”
In seven games, Koht recorded five tackles and half a sack in his fourth year at Alabama.
Koht redshirted in 2021 and then played seven combined games as a backup in 2022 and 2023. With Dallas Turner and Chris Braswell turning pro, Koht had a path to the field in Year 4 but had been the team’s third Wolf linebacker behind Que Robinson and Qua Russaw.
A native of Vero Beach, Florida, Koht was a 4-star prospect in the 2024 recruiting class. He was rated as the No. 39 overall player, No. 4 linebacker and No. 10 player from the state of Florida, according to the On3 Industry Rankings. He ultimately chose Alabama over LSU.
Koht is the second Alabama player who has elected to transfer during the season, joining Tide defensive lineman Jehiem Oatis who announced his decision to redshirt back on Oct. 7.
The NCAA transfer portal will officially open for undergraduates on Monday, Dec. 9.
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