Former West Virginia tight end Jack Sammarco commits to Alabama, per 247 Sports, bolstering Crimson Tide’s offensive depth and experience.

In a significant development for the college football offseason, former West Virginia tight end Jack Sammarco has officially committed to play for the Alabama Crimson Tide, according to a report by 247 Sports. The addition of Sammarco marks another key transfer portal acquisition for Alabama, as the program looks to reload and strengthen its offensive arsenal for the 2025 season under new leadership.

This commitment not only brings a seasoned, versatile tight end into the fold but also underscores Alabama’s ongoing ability to attract top-tier talent from across the country—even amid a rapidly changing college football landscape dominated by NIL deals, the transfer portal, and shifting program dynamics.

Who Is Jack Sammarco?

Jack Sammarco, a 6-foot-5, 245-pound tight end, began his college career at West Virginia University, where he gradually carved out a role for himself in a competitive Big 12 environment. Known for his reliable hands, blocking ability, and football IQ, Sammarco proved to be a valuable asset in both the passing and running game during his tenure with the Mountaineers.

Over the course of the 2024 season, Sammarco posted 38 receptions for 474 yards and 5 touchdowns, earning All-Big 12 honorable mention honors and establishing himself as one of the conference’s most dependable tight ends. His ability to stretch the field, box out defenders, and provide run-blocking support made him a vital cog in West Virginia’s offense.

Despite his contributions, Sammarco decided to enter the transfer portal following the end of the 2024 season. Sources close to the program indicated that the move was based on a desire to compete at the highest level of college football, and to prepare himself more directly for a potential future in the NFL. After exploring several high-profile options, Sammarco ultimately chose to commit to Alabama, a program with a proven track record of developing NFL-ready talent.

A Strategic Acquisition for Alabama

For Alabama, the addition of Jack Sammarco is a strategically savvy move. The Crimson Tide have a history of success at the tight end position, with players like O.J. Howard, Irv Smith Jr., and Cameron Latu developing into game-changing threats. However, following the departure of veteran tight ends from the 2024 roster, there was a noticeable need for a seasoned playmaker who could step in and make an immediate impact.

Sammarco fits that bill perfectly.

His ability to line up both in-line and in the slot gives Alabama flexibility in how they scheme their offense. He can create mismatches against linebackers and safeties in the passing game, while also serving as a reliable sixth lineman in run-heavy packages. Sammarco’s blocking prowess, in particular, is expected to help the Tide’s ground game flourish—especially with the team breaking in new starters at other skill positions.

More importantly, Sammarco brings experience and leadership to a locker room that has undergone considerable change in the wake of recent coaching transitions. As a graduate transfer with years of playing time in a Power Five conference, he offers not only on-field production but also maturity, poise, and an understanding of high-level competition.

A New Era Under New Leadership

Jack Sammarco’s arrival comes as Alabama begins a new era following the retirement of Nick Saban, who stepped away after the 2024 season. The legendary head coach left behind a dynasty of success, national championships, and a standard of excellence that few programs can match. Into that massive shadow steps Alabama’s newly-appointed head coach, Kalen DeBoer, who came to Tuscaloosa after a stellar stint at Washington.

DeBoer and his staff are looking to put their own stamp on the Alabama program while maintaining the championship mindset that fans and alumni expect. That includes smart, high-upside moves in the transfer portal—something DeBoer excelled at during his time with the Huskies.

In an offseason where Alabama has sought to reload rather than rebuild, the addition of Sammarco shows that the program remains a top destination for elite-level transfers who are looking to compete for a national championship and prepare for the NFL.

Sammarco’s Fit in the Crimson Tide Offense

Under DeBoer, Alabama’s offensive philosophy may shift slightly from the Saban-era approach, but tight ends will continue to play a central role. At Washington, DeBoer frequently utilized tight ends in creative ways—employing them in motion, flexed out wide, and integrated into play-action schemes. Sammarco’s skill set aligns perfectly with that vision.

In fact, DeBoer is believed to have targeted Sammarco early in the portal process, recognizing the potential to plug him into Alabama’s evolving offensive scheme. As someone who can run precise routes, block at the line of scrimmage, and serve as a safety valve on third down, Sammarco offers a skill package that can be utilized in multiple personnel groupings.

And with Alabama looking to develop a new quarterback after the departure of Jalen Milroe to the NFL, having a dependable tight end like Sammarco will be crucial in providing stability to the passing game. Whether the Tide opt for a pocket passer or a dual-threat quarterback, Sammarco will be a reliable target and a key figure in the red zone.

Reaction From Around the Country

The announcement of Sammarco’s commitment to Alabama drew reactions from analysts and fans alike, many of whom praised the Crimson Tide for making a calculated and potentially game-changing addition.

“Jack Sammarco is one of the best under-the-radar pickups of the offseason,” said 247 Sports’ Brandon Huffman. “He may not have been the flashiest name in the portal, but his tape speaks for itself. Alabama is getting a tough, intelligent, and versatile tight end who will make a big difference in 2025.”

On social media, Alabama fans welcomed Sammarco with open arms, with hashtags like #RollTide and #WelcomeSammarco trending shortly after the news broke. Sammarco himself posted a message on X (formerly Twitter), saying: “Grateful for the journey, and even more excited for what’s next. Let’s get to work. #RollTide 🐘”

What This Means for Alabama’s 2025 Outlook

Alabama enters the 2025 season with high expectations, despite the changes at the top of the program. The SEC remains as competitive as ever, with programs like Georgia, LSU, Texas, and Tennessee all pushing hard for conference supremacy. In that environment, every roster addition counts—and Sammarco could be one of the key pieces that help Alabama separate itself from the pack.

With spring practices already underway and summer camp looming, the focus now shifts to integration and preparation. Sammarco will need to quickly get up to speed with Alabama’s playbook, build chemistry with the new quarterback, and settle into a leadership role on and off the field.

But based on his track record and attitude, there’s every reason to believe he’ll do just that.

Final Thoughts

The commitment of Jack Sammarco to Alabama is more than just a simple transfer portal transaction—it’s a statement of intent. It’s a sign that Alabama, even in transition, remains one of the premier programs in all of college football. It’s also a testament to the changing nature of the sport, where experience, adaptability, and smart roster construction have become as important as recruiting five-star high school prospects.

For Sammarco, the move represents the next step in his football journey—a chance to compete on the biggest stage, develop under elite coaching, and possibly position himself for an NFL future.

For Alabama, it’s another smart, strategic win in the transfer portal era. And for fans, it’s just one more reason to believe that the Tide will keep rolling.