How Alabama football revamped its roster in the transfer portal

Eli Ricks, CB (LSU)

The LSU transfer and former five-star recruit was a prized addition from this transfer portal cycle. The cornerback position was a position of need for Alabama as they have lost tremendous depth throughout the past few years to the NFL draft. Furthermore, the Tide experienced inconsistent play last season, culminating in a musical chairs rotation of young corners toward the end of the season.

On the onset of spring practices, Nick Saban highlighted the need for development at the position and the positive impact that Eli Ricks can have on the group.

Ricks burst on the scene as a true freshman in Baton Rouge during the 2020 season. He recorded 20 tackles, four interceptions, five pass breakups, and two touchdowns.

His 2021 season was less lucrative as he experienced a shoulder injury which contributed to his derailed production, although he still managed to record an interception. He has long been heralded as a future NFL draft pick with many analysts considering him a potential first-round selection.

Ricks possesses ideal length at 6-foot-2, and thrives in press coverage. He showcases solid fundamentals and technique, an ode to the position coaches and trainers he has utilized in his career thus far. When Ricks is healthy and engaged, he shows traits of having top-level eye discipline that allows his to read receivers’ releases off the line of scrimmage, dictate route depth, and recognize the pattern being run.

In my opinion, what makes Ricks’ special is his ability to capitalize on not only forcing turnovers, but scoring touchdowns. Dating back to his high school years at Mater Dei and IMG Academy, he put on clinic tape with his playmaking ability once the ball is in his hands.

At Alabama, Ricks will be challenged to integrate into Saban’s defensive structure, put on beneficial weight in the strength & conditioning program, as well as be an experienced leader at the cornerback position. Based on Saban’s track record with the tutelage of defensive backs, do not be surprised if we see the best version of Eli Ricks this 2022 season.