Not even a storied program like Alabama, with 15 national championships to its name, is untouched by the effects of the transfer portal. Following their first season without iconic head coach Nick Saban—and after falling short of a College Football Playoff appearance and losing to a depleted Michigan team in the ReliaQuest Bowl—the Crimson Tide experienced considerable roster turnover this offseason.
Among the departures was former four-star recruit Caleb Odom, a versatile offensive player. Despite being low on the depth chart as a freshman, Odom managed to contribute to Alabama’s 9-4 season. However, his stint in Tuscaloosa was brief, as he opted to transfer to Ole Miss for the 2025 campaign.
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During a media session on Tuesday, Odom opened up about his decision to leave Alabama and took a subtle jab at new head coach Kalen DeBoer. “I wanted to be in a place where I felt wanted, needed, and comfortable,” he said. “I had a relationship with Ole Miss out of high school—they were my second choice—so reconnecting with Coach McDonald and visiting Coach Kiffin again just made sense.”
Though listed as a tight end by position, Odom was categorized as a wide receiver during his time with the Tide. The 6-foot-5, 215-pound freshman recorded seven catches for 65 yards in 12 games and also contributed on special teams, according to the program’s official site.
Odom wasn’t the only receiver to exit Alabama this offseason. The Tide also lost Kendrick Law, Kobe Prentice, Emmanuel Henderson Jr., Jaren Hamilton, and Amari Jefferson to the portal. Together, Odom, Law, Prentice, and Henderson combined for 31 receptions last year. In terms of additions, Alabama brings in just one wideout: Isaiah Horton from Miami, who posted 56 receptions for 616 yards and five touchdowns in 2024.
