Alabama Strengthens Tight End Position with Second Transfer Portal Addition
In a strategic move to bolster their tight end depth, the Alabama Crimson Tide football team has secured a commitment from Brody Dalton, a seasoned tight end transferring from Troy University. Dalton’s decision to join Alabama follows closely on the heels of another transfer addition, Jack Sammarco from West Virginia, signaling the team’s proactive approach to addressing roster needs through the transfer portal.
Brody Dalton’s Career Overview
Brody Dalton, a native of Fyffe, Alabama, brings a wealth of experience to the Crimson Tide. Over the course of his collegiate career, Dalton has accumulated 24 receptions for 339 yards and three touchdowns across 32 games at both UAB and Troy. In the 2024 season, he recorded 15 catches for 188 yards and multiple touchdowns for Troy, showcasing his ability to contribute significantly in the passing game.
Dalton’s versatility is evident in his on-field performance. According to Pro Football Focus, he spent a substantial portion of his snaps—378 out of 548—as an inline tight end, with an additional 104 snaps in the backfield. This diverse usage highlights his adaptability and potential to fit into various offensive schemes.
Immediate Impact and Role at Alabama
Alabama’s tight end position faced uncertainty following the departure of key players CJ Dippre and Robbie Ouzts, both of whom declared for the 2025 NFL Draft. With the majority of spring practice sessions missed by returning tight ends Josh Cuevas, Danny Lewis Jr., and Marshall Pritchett, the addition of Dalton addresses an immediate need for experienced depth.
Dalton’s experience and skill set position him as a potential contributor in both the passing game and blocking schemes. His ability to serve as both an inline tight end and a backfield option provides offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan with flexibility in play-calling and personnel deployment.
Strategic Implications for Alabama’s Offense
The recruitment of Dalton, along with Sammarco, underscores Alabama’s commitment to enhancing its offensive capabilities. By adding experienced tight ends through the transfer portal, the Crimson Tide aim to create a more dynamic and unpredictable offense. The presence of multiple capable tight ends allows for varied formations and schemes, potentially improving both the passing and running games.
Furthermore, the integration of Dalton and Sammarco into the tight end rotation provides valuable mentorship opportunities for younger players such as Kaleb Edwards and Marshall Pritchett. This blend of experience and emerging talent could foster a competitive and cohesive tight end unit for the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season approaches, the addition of Brody Dalton to Alabama’s roster is expected to have a significant impact on the team’s offensive strategy and depth. His experience and versatility offer Alabama the opportunity to diversify its offensive schemes and enhance its overall performance. With a strengthened tight end position, the Crimson Tide are poised to remain competitive in the Southeastern Conference and on the national stage.
Alabama’s proactive approach in utilizing the transfer portal to address roster needs has yielded promising results. The commitment of Brody Dalton, alongside Jack Sammarco, reflects the team’s strategic planning and dedication to maintaining a high level of performance. As the season unfolds, the contributions of these transfer tight ends will be pivotal in shaping the success of Alabama’s offense.
