An Alabama native is making his way back to the heartland. Former Florida defensive end Kelby Collins has announced his transfer to the Alabama football program after two seasons with the Gators. This move adds to the growing list of players who have chosen to join the Crimson Tide.

Unlock the Potential of Alabama Football with Kelby Collins

Florida's Defensive Star Returns to Alabama

Kelby Collins, a former 2023 top-50 defensive end from Gardendale, Alabama, initially chose the Gators over other powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Oklahoma. His decision to transfer back to Alabama shows his deep connection to the state and his desire to contribute to the football program.As a freshman in 2023, Collins was one of Florida's go-to defensive players. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 250 pounds, he played 274 snaps per Pro Football Focus as an edge rusher, racking up 23 tackles, two tackles-for-loss, 1.5 sacks, one pass deflection, and a forced fumble. His performance earned him freshman all-SEC and second-team freshman All-American honors.However, in 2024, his production dipped slightly. Playing just 59 snaps in six games and moving to defensive tackle, he recorded six tackles. But his experience and potential still make him a valuable addition to the Alabama football team.

Alabama's Need for an Edge Rusher

Alabama is currently in desperate need of an edge rusher. The Crimson Tide could lose both senior Bandit Jah-Marien Latham and LT Overton, who have shown up on multiple 2025 NFL mock draft boards. This would leave Alabama without either of its co-starters from 2024.While players like Jordan Renaud and Keon Keeley could fill in for Latham and Overton, an edge rusher like Collins was seemingly at the top of the Crimson Tide's transfer portal wish list. He is a player who has produced as a larger defensive end before moving to the interior, bringing a unique skill set to the team.Collins' arrival in Alabama gives the team a boost in depth and talent at the edge rusher position. His experience and potential will be crucial as Alabama looks to compete at the highest level in college football.