Alabama has their newest tight end in transfer Brody Dalton, a Fyffe native who began his collegiate career at UAB and Troy.

The Alabama Crimson Tide has added a new weapon to its tight end room with the transfer of Brody Dalton, a product of Fyffe, Alabama. Dalton’s journey through the college football landscape has been unique, transitioning from UAB to Troy and now to Alabama. His addition to the Alabama roster is not just a depth move—it’s an opportunity for him to prove himself at the highest level of college football, and in the process, it represents a new chapter in his football journey.

Dalton brings experience, size, and versatility to a position that has been evolving in Alabama’s offense. His career thus far has been defined by overcoming adversity, adapting to new environments, and honing his skills as both a blocker and a pass catcher. This 6’5″, 250-pound tight end from small-town Alabama could prove to be a key piece in the Crimson Tide’s continued quest for a national championship.

Early Life and High School Career: A Foundation Built in Fyffe

Brody Dalton’s story begins in the small town of Fyffe, Alabama, a place that has produced numerous football talents despite its modest size. The town’s high school team, Fyffe High School, built a reputation for success, especially in the 2A classification. Dalton was a standout athlete during his time there, not only as a football player but also as a kicker. His size, athleticism, and versatility made him a highly coveted recruit from a program that was perennially in contention for state titles.

During his high school career, Fyffe was a dominant force in Alabama 2A football, including an undefeated 15-0 season and a state championship in 2016. Dalton played a critical role in that success, contributing as both a tight end and a kicker. His ability to make field goals and convert extra points further demonstrated his diverse skill set, and this versatility would become an asset as he moved on to the next level.

Dalton’s high school production, though impressive, didn’t draw immediate attention from powerhouse programs. However, his work ethic and potential were evident, and it wasn’t long before he found a home at UAB, marking the beginning of his collegiate journey.

UAB: The Beginning of Dalton’s College Career

Dalton began his collegiate career at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) in 2021. Initially, he redshirted his first year, which is common for many freshmen as they adjust to the speed of the game and the physical demands of college football. UAB’s coaching staff saw promise in Dalton, and in 2022, he was able to earn playing time.

During the 2022 season, Dalton appeared in 10 games and made four starts for the Blazers. While his statistics weren’t gaudy—he recorded just four receptions for 63 yards—the experience he gained in his first year of college football was invaluable. He proved that he could contribute to a Division I program and begin to develop his skills as a tight end. Dalton showed flashes of what made him a promising prospect, particularly in his ability to block at the point of attack and his solid hands in short-yardage situations.

However, it became clear that Dalton’s path forward would require him to step into a more prominent role, and with the potential for more playing time elsewhere, Dalton made the decision to transfer to Troy University, where his skills could continue to develop in a more high-profile offensive scheme.

Troy: A Fresh Start and Breaking Out

Dalton’s transfer to Troy in 2023 marked a new chapter in his career. Unfortunately, his start at Troy was delayed by an offseason car accident that resulted in injuries, forcing him to miss the first five games of the season. For any player, this would be a significant setback. But Dalton’s determination and resolve saw him return to action and make an immediate impact.

Despite missing the first portion of the season, Dalton played in nine games and contributed five receptions for 88 yards. The numbers didn’t jump off the page, but it was clear that Dalton had the tools to be more than just a role player. His size, blocking ability, and pass-catching potential were all on display as he worked his way back into form.

In 2024, Dalton took his game to the next level. He started the final eight games of the season, racking up 15 receptions for 188 yards and three touchdowns. These statistics marked a significant improvement and showcased Dalton’s growth as a well-rounded tight end. His ability to play in critical moments was evident, especially in Troy’s final five games, where he accumulated 152 yards and all three of his touchdowns.

Dalton’s strong finish to the season was enough to get the attention of several high-profile programs, including Alabama. The Crimson Tide recognized Dalton’s potential and his ability to contribute both as a blocker and a pass catcher, making him an ideal fit for their offense.

The Alabama Fit: A Perfect Opportunity

When Alabama came calling, it represented a massive opportunity for Dalton. The Crimson Tide had undergone some turnover at the tight end position, and there was a clear need for a player with Dalton’s experience and skill set. Alabama’s offensive system, which emphasizes a strong running game complemented by a dynamic passing attack, is a natural fit for a tight end with Dalton’s capabilities.

At Alabama, Dalton will join a group of talented tight ends, some of whom are younger and still developing their skills. But Dalton’s experience in both the passing and running games sets him apart. His ability to block in the trenches will be invaluable, especially in Alabama’s pro-style offense that often uses tight ends in multiple formations.

Dalton will also be a key asset in the passing game, particularly in red-zone situations where his size and ability to box out defenders will make him a dangerous target. He’s not a speed demon, but his reliable hands, physicality, and ability to win contested catches are exactly what Alabama needs in its offensive scheme.

Moreover, Dalton’s leadership and experience will be vital for Alabama’s young tight ends. Having played in multiple college systems, Dalton brings a wealth of knowledge about the nuances of the position, from reading defenses to running precise routes to executing blocks in critical situations.

What Dalton Brings to the Field: Strengths and Style of Play

Dalton is a versatile tight end who can play both as a traditional tight end in-line or as a flexed-out receiver in certain formations. His frame of 6’5″ and 250 pounds makes him an imposing figure on the field, allowing him to engage in both physical blocks and contested catches. Dalton’s combination of size and strength also allows him to help create space in the run game, particularly on outside zone runs or play-action fakes.

As a pass catcher, Dalton is reliable with solid hands, especially in short-to-intermediate routes like slants, outs, and curls. He’s not the fastest tight end, but his ability to make tough catches in traffic and his knack for finding soft spots in zone coverage make him a reliable target in key situations.

Dalton’s blocking ability is also a crucial aspect of his game. He’s not just a “catcher” but a true two-way tight end who can excel in both the passing and running games. His experience in different systems has allowed him to refine his blocking technique, making him an asset in a variety of formations. Whether it’s sealing the edge for running backs or protecting the quarterback in pass protection, Dalton has the skills to contribute in these areas.

What This Means for Alabama’s Tight End Room

With the addition of Dalton, Alabama now has more depth and experience at tight end, a position that has seen recent turnover. Dalton’s presence will help stabilize the unit, providing a steady veteran presence for a group that includes several promising underclassmen. His versatility means that he can be used in multiple ways, which should give the coaching staff the flexibility to deploy different offensive packages.

Alabama’s offense is expected to evolve, and having a reliable, experienced tight end like Dalton will give them another weapon to work with. He could play a significant role in both the passing and running games, and his experience will be invaluable in high-pressure situations.

 Brody Dalton’s Path Forward at Alabama

Brody Dalton’s journey from Fyffe to UAB to Troy and now to Alabama has been one of perseverance and steady improvement. After a successful career at UAB and Troy, Dalton now has the opportunity to prove himself at the highest level of college football with the Crimson Tide. With his size, experience, and versatility, he could be a key piece in Alabama’s offense as they continue to build toward their next championship.

As Dalton steps onto the field in Tuscaloosa, he will bring more than just his physical skills—he’ll bring a mindset forged through adversity and a passion for the game. Alabama fans can look forward to seeing Dalton contribute in both the running and passing games, providing a valuable presence in the offense for years to come.