The Alabama Crimson Tide’s pass rush was largely one man, in 2025. That player is Yhonzae Pierre. Right now, Pierre has not indicated that he will leave for the NFL Draft and or enter the portal, the latter of which wouldn’t make much sense given that he’s Alabama’s top EDGE.

That was especially true after the decision of LT Overton to enter the NFL Draft and the surprise departure of Keon Keeley, which already ensured that Alabama will be investing heavily at EDGE in the portal. Well, now another key contributor has left the Crimson Tide’s defense, and it takes a weakened group and puts them on their last legs.

Alabama loses Qua Russaw to the transfer portal

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Russaw played the Wolf position in Kane Wommack’s defense, and he was in and out of the starting lineup due to injury and performance at times in 2025. However, he was at the very least going to be an integral part of Alabama’s pass rush rotation in 2026. For more on the startling departure, here is Josh Taylor of A to Z Sports Alabama.

“Russaw entering the transfer portal is a surprise, but it tells me two things. The first, Pierre is a lock to return and skip the draft this season. Second, Alabama might have someone else in mind in the transfer portal already. They also have Justin Hill behind Pierre at the Wolf position, but this is honestly their biggest loss yet, and one I didn’t expect to happen. He also suffered a broken foot in September against Georgia, which didn’t help at all, and that’s when Pierre took his spot and never looked back.” – Taylor

This move solidifies that Yhonzae Pierre can name his price, and that Alabama’s focus on the RB and WR position may now shift to the defensive side of the ball following the exodus at the CB and pass rusher.

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