Alabama Cornerback Jaylen Mbakwe plans to enter NCAA Transfer Portalhe said to On3 Hayes Fawcett. Mbakwe just completed his freshman season with the Crimson Tide and will remain loyal to the program afterwards Kalen DeBoer took over. However, he will spend his second year of college football elsewhere.

Mbakwe appeared in 11 games for Alabama this season and only missed the loss Vanderbilt. There was some debate about where his career would begin after high school. But Mbakwe played cornerback and recorded 15 tackles, 1.0 tackles for a loss, two pass breakups and an interception.

The punt return was a spot where Mbakwe also looked down the field and had two touches for 48 yards. Both competed against each other during the non-conference portion of the program USF And Mercer.

Wide receiver was another place Alabama considered playing the highly touted prospect before he arrived on campus. Although Mbakwe played quarterback in high school, CB or WR were the two landing spots. There could potentially be a shake-up at his next stop.

“One of the more dynamic two-way athletes entering the 2024 cycle. “Played on both sides of the ball for one of the top high school programs in Alabama,” On3 said in Mbakwe’s scouting report. “… Pulls away into the open field and easily leaves the defenders behind. Dynamic with the ball in his hands, both as a receiver and return man. Also shows separation ability on vertical routes. Has multiple kicks for touchdowns.

“Spent much of his time on offense as a junior, although he was a long-term cornerback. Was a productive defensive back as a sophomore with high ball production, totaling 4 interceptions and 12 pass breakups. Has a smaller, leaner frame and will need to further refine his technique once he fully focuses on playing cornerback.”

Mbakwe played high school football at Pinson (AL) Clay Chalkvillewhere he was Five Star Plus+ Outlook. He was the No. 16 overall recruit in the 2024 cycleaccording to the On3 industry rankinga weighted average that takes into account all four major recruiting media companies.