BREAKING: Kansas State Wildcats gain commitment from Alabama football transfer
Chris Klieman initially missed out on Jayshawn Ross when the talented linebacker chose Alabama over Kansas State as a high school recruit from Liberty North. However, Ross is now set to join the Wildcats. The 6-foot-4, 220-pound versatile defender committed to K-State on Tuesday as a transfer after spending his freshman year in the SEC.
Expected to play a hybrid role, Ross can contribute as both a defensive end and linebacker, particularly as a pass rusher. Defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman will likely find various ways to utilize his skills.
Ross was a key target for Klieman and his staff when they explored transfer portal options. Although he didn’t record any stats with the Crimson Tide this season, K-State remained confident in his potential, having previously recruited him as a four-star prospect.
Alabama adds former Louisiana running back Dre’lyn Washington through transfer portal
Alabama has bolstered its running back room for the 2025 season with the addition of Dre’lyn Washington, a transfer from Louisiana. The former Ragin’ Cajuns running back committed to the Crimson Tide on Monday night, as confirmed by Bama247. Washington visited Tuscaloosa officially on Friday, January 2, arriving in Birmingham the night before and departing Saturday morning.
The 5-foot-9, 225-pound Washington brings two years of eligibility to Alabama after an impressive redshirt sophomore season, rushing for 478 yards and five touchdowns on 73 carries. Over three seasons at Louisiana, he tallied 1,343 yards and nine touchdowns on 229 carries, averaging 5.9 yards per rush, along with 154 receiving yards and two touchdowns on 14 receptions.
His addition helps offset recent losses, including the departure of running back Justice Haynes to Michigan via the transfer portal. Washington joins a 2025 Alabama backfield that already features Jam Miller, Richard Young, Daniel Hill, Kevin Riley, and freshman Akylin Dear. He is expected to serve as a change-of-pace back and provide valuable depth.
Washington is part of a strong transfer class for Alabama, which also includes Kelby Collins (Florida DL/EDGE), Cameron Calhoun (Utah/Michigan), Kam Dewberry (Texas A&M OL), Isaiah Horton (Miami WR), Nikhai Hill-Green (Michigan/Charlotte/Colorado LB), and Arkel Anugwom (Ball State OL).