The CFP National Championship Game will feature these former Alabama transfers.

The College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship Game has consistently showcased some of the most talented teams and players in college football. This year is no different, as the two teams vying for the title feature players who were once part of the prestigious Alabama football program. Alabama’s dominance in college football, particularly under head coach Nick Saban, has led to an influx of top-tier recruits who often move on to other programs for a variety of reasons. Some players leave Alabama to find more playing time, while others seek different opportunities that align more closely with their career goals. Regardless of the reason, many of these former Alabama players go on to have significant impacts at their new schools, contributing to their teams’ success on the biggest stages.

The CFP National Championship Game will feature several former Alabama players who transferred out of the program, but who have made important contributions to their new teams. These players left Alabama, but their talent and skills were molded by the rigorous training and development they received while playing for one of the most successful football programs in the country. As a result, these players are now poised to leave their mark on the national championship game.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the standout former Alabama transfers who will play pivotal roles in the CFP National Championship Game and examine how their past experiences with the Crimson Tide have shaped their performance.

The Transfer Portal: A New Era in College Football

Before diving into the individual players, it’s important to understand how the transfer portal has changed the landscape of college football. The transfer portal allows players to explore opportunities outside of their current schools, giving them the freedom to move without the restrictions that once made transfers more difficult. Over the past few years, the transfer portal has become a vital tool for players looking to advance their careers, and many former Alabama players have used it to find new opportunities at other programs.

Alabama’s success has created a situation where, despite being one of the most dominant programs in the country, some players find it challenging to earn starting roles. For some, transferring to another school offers the best chance to get more playing time and continue their development. Others may leave to find a program that fits their style of play or to explore a new challenge. Regardless of the reasoning, Alabama’s rigorous program and top-notch coaching ensure that former players are well-equipped to succeed at their new schools.

1. Jalen Hurts – Quarterback, Oklahoma (Now with the Philadelphia Eagles)

One of the most high-profile transfers from Alabama is Jalen Hurts, who played quarterback for the Crimson Tide before transferring to the University of Oklahoma. Hurts had a standout career at Alabama, leading the team to a national championship appearance as a freshman and showcasing his dual-threat abilities. However, after losing the starting job to Tua Tagovailoa, Hurts decided to transfer to Oklahoma for his senior season, where he would have a chance to start and continue developing his skills as a quarterback.

At Oklahoma, Hurts flourished under head coach Lincoln Riley’s high-powered offense, earning a spot as a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2019. He also led the Sooners to a CFP appearance in 2019, demonstrating his poise and leadership on the biggest stage. Hurts’ experience at Alabama under Saban’s coaching and his growth at Oklahoma made him one of the most exciting quarterbacks in the 2020 NFL Draft. He was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles, where he has continued to build on his success.

Although Hurts will not be on the field in this year’s national championship game, his influence is felt in the way teams prepare for dual-threat quarterbacks. His time at Alabama provided him with the foundation to succeed at Oklahoma and the NFL, and his success is a testament to the development and culture at Alabama.

2. Henry To’o To’o – Linebacker, Tennessee (Now with Alabama)

Another notable transfer who has had a significant impact on college football is Henry To’o To’o, who initially played at the University of Tennessee before transferring to Alabama in 2021. As one of the top linebackers in college football, To’o To’o was a force for Tennessee during his time with the Vols, but after a few seasons, he made the decision to transfer to Alabama, where he hoped to elevate his game and compete for a national championship.

To’o To’o’s decision to transfer paid off, as he quickly became a key player for Alabama’s defense. His leadership, versatility, and ability to disrupt opposing offenses have made him one of the top linebackers in college football. To’o To’o’s experience at Tennessee, combined with his time at Alabama, has given him a unique perspective on what it takes to succeed at the highest level. He’s a perfect example of how players can benefit from the transfer portal, as his time at both programs has allowed him to develop into a more complete player.

While To’o To’o won’t be featured in this year’s national championship game, his story highlights the importance of transfer players, who can bring a wealth of experience and a different perspective to their new teams.

3. Tyrell Shavers – Wide Receiver, Mississippi State

Tyrell Shavers is another former Alabama player who made the decision to transfer to a different school for more playing time. A highly rated recruit out of high school, Shavers spent several seasons at Alabama but found limited opportunities in the crowded wide receiver room. He transferred to Mississippi State, where he has become a key contributor for the Bulldogs.

Shavers’ ability to stretch the field and create mismatches for opposing defenses has helped Mississippi State become one of the more dynamic offenses in the SEC. His deep ball threat and size give the Bulldogs a distinct advantage, and Shavers’ development as a wide receiver can be attributed to the high level of competition and coaching he received during his time at Alabama. In fact, his success at Mississippi State is indicative of how former Alabama players can take the skills they learned in Tuscaloosa and adapt them to different offensive systems.

4. Jhavonte Dean – Cornerback, Miami

Jhavonte Dean, a former Alabama cornerback, transferred to the University of Miami after spending a season with the Crimson Tide. At Alabama, Dean showed flashes of the talent that made him a standout recruit, but his playing time was limited due to the depth of the secondary. Seeking more opportunities, he transferred to Miami, where he quickly became a key member of the Hurricanes’ defense.

Dean’s development at Miami has been impressive, as he has turned into one of the top cornerbacks in the ACC. His time at Alabama played a crucial role in his growth, as he was able to learn from some of the top defensive coaches in the country and work alongside elite players in the secondary. Now, as a key contributor at Miami, Dean has the opportunity to prove that Alabama’s program continues to shape and mold players even after they leave.

5. Jahmyr Gibbs – Running Back, Georgia Tech

Jahmyr Gibbs was a highly sought-after recruit who began his college career at the University of Georgia Tech. During his time there, Gibbs emerged as one of the top running backs in college football. However, after a successful stint at Georgia Tech, Gibbs made the decision to transfer to Alabama for his junior season, where he became an immediate standout.

Gibbs’ combination of speed, agility, and vision makes him a dual-threat in both the running game and the passing game. His ability to excel as both a running back and a receiver out of the backfield made him an invaluable asset to Alabama’s offense. While he won’t be playing for a championship this year, his decision to transfer to Alabama set him on a path toward success, and his impact on the field can still be felt as teams try to replicate his success in the future.

How These Transfers Impact the National Championship Game

While these former Alabama transfers may not all be directly involved in this year’s CFP National Championship Game, their influence on college football cannot be overstated. Whether they are playing for championship-contending programs or contributing to the development of other programs, former Alabama players are shaping the landscape of the sport. The lessons they learned while playing for Saban’s program—whether it’s the mental toughness, the defensive discipline, or the offensive execution—continue to pay dividends as they succeed at other schools.

In the current landscape of college football, transfers play an increasingly important role. Players leaving Alabama and finding success at other programs highlight the competitive nature of the sport and the value of experience and coaching. These players may have left Alabama in pursuit of more playing time or a different role, but the impact of the coaching and development they received in Tuscaloosa remains with them as they seek success at their new homes.

Ultimately, the success of former Alabama players at other schools serves as a testament to the high level of coaching, development, and competition within the Alabama program. As teams prepare for the national championship, they will undoubtedly be influenced by the skills and talents of these former Alabama players who have found new homes in college football. Whether it’s on the field or in the coaching ranks, Alabama’s legacy will continue to affect the outcome of the national championship for years to come.