Kalen DeBoer didn’t live up to expectations in his first season as head coach of Alabama, leading the Crimson Tide to a disappointing 9-4 finish capped off by a ReliaQuest Bowl loss to the unranked Michigan Wolverines.
The bad news kept coming for Alabama after this loss as several key players announced their intentions to enter the NCAA transfer portal.
But on Saturday, the Crimson Tide program finally got some good news.
Alabama linebacker Justin Jefferson officially announced his decision to return to Tuscaloosa for his final season of collegiate eligibility in 2025, which he was awarded due to the NCAA’s recent ruling on junior college players.
“I would also like to thank the people who fought to help junior college student-athletes earn a extra year of eligibility,” Jefferson wrote on social media. “Without this legislation, I would not be able to continue playing the game I love at the University I love. Alabama is a special place to me, and I cannot wait to return for the 2025 season.”
Jefferson was a key contributor for the Crimson Tide defense in 2024, recording 60 tackles, seven tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks and one forced fumble through 12 game appearances.
Starting defensive tackle Tim Keenan also announced his decision to return in 2025 on Saturday morning.
With these key returners, Alabama will look to notch an improved campaign in 2025.