Alabama lures experienced CB away from LSU in transfer portal

After Alabama lost out on Isaiah Williams to Ole Miss last week, new Crimson Tide head coach Kalen DeBoer recovered by adding former Wake Forest corner DaShawn Jones. Jones was being chased by LSU in the transfer portal, but Alabama is expected to earn his commitment soon. The fourth-year junior can challenge to start right away in 2024.

Jones, ranked as a 3-star transfer, has 22 games of experience in the ACC. His play jumped in 2023, notching 37 tackles and three interceptions in 10 games. The 6-foot, 181-pounder was a track star in high school.

The cornerback position has been problematic for the Tide since Nick Saban's retirement. Incoming freshmen Zabien Brown, Zavier Mincey, and Red Morgan are highly touted but unproven. With Georgia and Ole Miss looming with powerful passing offenses, adding some experience is valuable.

Junior Domani Jackson and Jones should play early in 2024 based on their experience, but their play will determine whether their first-year competition can earn bigger roles throughout the season. DeBoer embraced working in younger players in rotational opportunities while at Washington, and it'd be wise to continue that strategy.

Getting Jones also helps keep LSU from improving. The Tigers may have started Jones right away from senior Zy Alexander, so it's not an insignificant signing. While I had Williams higher due to his athleticism and ball production, Jones is on track to hold his own in the SEC.