New Delhi, Jan. 3 -- Former five-star wide receiver Jaylen Mbakwe has entered the NCAA transfer portal, just weeks after denying rumours of his departure. The sophomore from Clay-Chalkville High School confirmed the decision on Friday (January 2), as the winter portal window opened.

Jaylen Mbakwe had been adamant about staying with the Crimson Tide. In late December 2025, following Alabama's playoff run, he was directly asked about portal rumours. "Nah," Mbakwe said. "Definitely not."

This came after a challenging 2025 season where Mbakwe transitioned from defensive back to wide receiver. He saw limited action on offense, finishing with just three receptions for 55 yards, mostly in blowout games. He contributed more on special teams, in...