The Alabama Crimson Tide football program has consistently demonstrated its prowess in recruiting and player development. As the 2025 season approaches, Alabama has strategically utilized the NCAA transfer portal to bolster its tight end position, ensuring depth and versatility. This article delves into the recent additions to Alabama’s tight end roster, analyzing their potential impact on the team’s performance in the upcoming season.
The Transfer Portal: A Strategic Tool for Team Enhancement
The NCAA transfer portal has become an essential mechanism for college football programs to address immediate roster needs and enhance team performance. For Alabama, the portal has provided an opportunity to acquire experienced players who can contribute immediately, particularly in positions where depth was previously lacking.
Key Tight End Additions to Alabama’s Roster
Peter Knudson (Weber State)
Alabama’s first tight end acquisition through the transfer portal was Peter Knudson from Weber State. Over five seasons at the FCS level, Knudson amassed 63 receiving yards and a touchdown in 12 games during the 2024 season. His experience and blocking capabilities are expected to provide valuable depth to Alabama’s tight end unit .
Brody Dalton (Troy)
Following Knudson’s commitment, Alabama secured another tight end, Brody Dalton from Troy. Dalton’s decision to join the Crimson Tide came after a visit and choosing Alabama over other programs like North Carolina. His addition further solidifies the tight end position, offering both receiving and blocking skills .
Danny Lewis Jr. (Alabama)
In a positive turn, Danny Lewis Jr., a tight end who had previously entered the transfer portal, decided to withdraw and remain with Alabama. Lewis has participated in 31 games over two seasons, primarily contributing in blocking roles. His decision to stay adds experienced depth to the position .
Departures and Their Implications
Alabama also experienced departures that impacted the tight end position:
CJ Dippre (Maryland): A transfer from Maryland, Dippre contributed significantly during his tenure but has since graduated, leaving a gap in the tight end lineup.
Robbie Ouzts (Alabama): Ouzts, another key contributor, has exhausted his eligibility, necessitating the need for new talent to step in.
Ty Lockwood (Alabama): A highly regarded recruit, Lockwood entered the transfer portal, seeking more playing time elsewhere. His departure further emphasized the need for reinforcements at the tight end position .
Projected Tight End Depth Chart for 2025
With the additions and departures, Alabama’s tight end depth chart for the 2025 season is projected as follows:
Starting Tight Ends: Josh Cuevas and Danny Lewis Jr.
Backup Options: Peter Knudson and Brody Dalton
This configuration provides a balance of experience and talent, ensuring that Alabama’s offense remains versatile and competitive.
Impact on Alabama’s Offensive Strategy
The enhanced tight end roster allows Alabama to diversify its offensive schemes:
Versatility in Formations: The depth at tight end enables Alabama to employ multiple tight-end sets, creating mismatches against opposing defenses.
Enhanced Blocking: Experienced tight ends like Knudson and Lewis bolster the offensive line, facilitating improved run blocking.
Receiving Threats: Dalton and Cuevas add receiving options, stretching the defense and providing quarterbacks with reliable targets.
These strategic advantages position Alabama’s offense for success in the upcoming season.
Conclusion
Through strategic utilization of the NCAA transfer portal, Alabama has effectively strengthened its tight end position, addressing previous depth concerns. The additions of Peter Knudson, Brody Dalton, and the retention of Danny Lewis Jr. provide Alabama with a robust and versatile tight end unit. These moves reflect the program’s commitment to maintaining its competitive edge and adapting to the evolving landscape of college football.
