Getty Image / Chris McDill
Most of the transfer portal entries happened earlier this week when the portal open on Monday. But, Thursday brought us a big surprise, as former five-star recruit and Alabama star receiver Ja’Corey Brooks announced his entry into the portal.
It’s unknown at this point if the wide receiver will play in the College Football Playoff Semifinal against Michigan in the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day. You’d have to think it’s unlikely, though.
Alabama WR Ja'Corey Brooks and DL Isaiah Hastings have entered the transfer portal
— Tony Tsoukalas (@Tony_Tsoukalas) December 7, 2023
Make no mistake, this is one of the most shocking portal entries of the offseason so far. Brooks has battled injuries this year, but the junior wide receiver can absolutely play.
Brooks burst on to the scene as a freshman. His stats don’t jump off the page at you, but he had the game-tying touchdown catch at the end of regulation in a dramatic Iron Bowl overtime win in 2021.
The Florida native shined in 2022 with his best season, as he had 39 grabs for 674 yards and 8 touchdowns, showing off his big play ability. And, that led many to think he would have a huge season this year as he looked towards the 2024 NFL Draft.
But, despite Alabama rebounding from the early-season loss to Texas to win the SEC and make the playoff, the passing game was never exactly elite with Jalen Milroe under center. And, even before an injury midseason, Brooks wasn’t having the year many thought he would.
That may be an understatement, to be honest. Brooks finished the year with just three catches for 30 yards and a touchdown, and hasn’t recorded a catch since the middle of October.
Ultimately, this is going to be a highly-sought after player in the transfer portal. It’s too early to speculate where he is going to end up, but some team is going to get a boost in a receiver with first-round upside. That team will be hoping he makes an impact like Keon Coleman did for Florida State this year.