Formerly Dubbed Best by Nick Saban, Caleb Downs Joins Other Teammates in Unfulfilling Kalen DeBoer’s Wish

The retirement of Nick Saban was abrupt. But the rapidly changing landscapes in Alabama post-Saban’s retirement seem more rapid than ever. As soon as Saban retired, the free-agency transfer portal jarred a specific 30-day extended transfer portal window exclusively for Alabama players. On that note, Caleb Downs is one player who entered the transfer portal.

To prevent the expected blunders, Athletic Director Greg Byrne announced Washington’s former head coach Kalen DeBoer to be the successor of Nick Saban’s legacy within just 49 hours. Safe to say, the suddenness of the shifting dynamics didn’t sit well with players, as they opted out of the team instead. Yet, Downs remains a kid to watch out for!

Caleb Downs enters the transfer portal!

Safety Caleb Downs was awarded SEC Freshman of the Year, per ON3’s Jeremy Johnson. Downs was one promising five-star prospect for Alabama. Even Nick Saban sensed it a mile away during the single season he played with him. It was Downs’ maturity as a player that charmed Saban. “He’s a very instinctive football player, but this guy, there’s no arrogance about him, being one of the best players in the country at his position. He’s very focused, he’s very coachable,” said Saban.

The 5-foot-11.5 inch, 190-pound defensive back became the first Alabama freshman to lead his team in tackles in program history dating back to at least 1970 with his 107 total tackles of the season, ranking fourth in SEC. Following this decision, Downs becomes the sixth departure from Alabama since Nick Saban’s retirement. However, this one might hurt Alabama more than others, given the gridiron excellence Downs possesses. Ahead of Downs, wide receiver Isaiah Bond (who committed to Texas on Sunday) and defensive backs Antonio Kite and Dezz Ricks entered the transfer portal following Saban’s retirement.

Despite the decision lying solely in favor of Alabama players, new head coach Kalen DeBoer pleaded his case fair and square to the Alabama players.

Kalen DeBoer’s sincere request to Alabama student-athletes

“Givе mе a chancе to show you a fеw things,” were words from DeBoer’s introductory meet with Alabama players. The former Washington head coach knows that Saban’s shoes are big to fill in. However, having complete faith in himself, he stated, “I felt confident enough in my abilities and, along with knowing that you have someone that wants this program to be so successful.”

READ MORE: “Will Be Back Posting”: Nick Saban’s Daughter Kristen Drops Hints of a Big Revelation, Possibly Tied to Her Father’s Exit

With six players already out of the equation, DeBoer would have to prove himself with his dexterity and transfer portal abilities to maintain the standard Nick Saban set for the franchise.

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