Defensive lineman Jaheim Oatis announced earlier today that he will be redshirting and transferring after the season. This means he will not be playing for the remainder of the season before entering the transfer portal once the season concludes. This news comes in the wake of Alabama’s 40-35 loss at Vanderbilt, in which the Commodores handled the Crimson Tide’s defensive line.
Oatis, a former four-star recruit, had four tackles and two pass breakups to go along with a quarterback hurry and a pressure this season. Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer responded to the news during his Monday press conference.
“(I) felt like it was going that way,” DeBoer said on Oatis. “I think the thing you also have to understand is there’s other elements. There’s health, there’s life elements. I love these guys. They work hard. Jehiem’s choices and things, there’s reasons for that, right? He has notified and continued to be in communication with us. Kind of felt like it was maybe going that direction, not just today or yesterday. We move forward with the guys that really are able to help us win and focused on our program.”
Defensive coordinator Kane Wommack also addressed Oatis’ decision. “He’s been battling some injuries,” Wommack said. “Has not been able to perform or produce the way that any of us would like, but my focus is really on the players that are going to do anything they can to help us win football games.” The Crimson Tide were out-rushed and out-coached as Vanderbilt accumulated 418 total yards and 26 first downs against Alabama’s defense. The Commodores also finished 12/18 on third down.
