Alabama is in the midst of a complete overhaul on the offensive line. With Parker Brailsford declaring for the NFL Draft and Kadyn Proctor expected to join him, the Crimson Tide will only bring back one starter in 2026 in freshman right tackle Michael Carroll.
Alabama has also seen several depth pieces go into the portal, most of which were holdovers from Nick Saban's tenure. DeBoer is retooling up front, looking for guys who can run his offensive scheme instead of trying to force guys to fit who don't.
Alabama is pursuing numerous options in the portal on the offensive line. One of the latest to emerge is LSU transfer DJ Chester, a versatile lineman who could play anywhere up front. According to Matt Zenitz, Chester is scheduled to visit Tuscaloosa on Thursday:
LSU offensive line transfer DJ Chester is also now set to visit Alabama Thursday, his agency @AgencyOneSports tells @CBSSports.
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) January 6, 2026
Chester, who is repped by @Agentbutler1, made 14 career starts at LSU. https://t.co/WAChYWakER pic.twitter.com/nF9qB25xZO
Alabama set to get a visit from LSU transfer DJ Chester
Chester was a 13-game starter for LSU as a redshirt freshman at center in 2024. The Tigers planned to shift him to guard in 2025, but injuries up front led the former 4-star recruit to play left tackle. He struggled at that spot, but would seemingly be a guy the Crimson Tide is targeting to play on the interior.
Chester was once a top recruit. In 247's rankings, he was the No. 1 IOL in the 2023 recruiting class and the No. 54 overall player.
Chester has potential and SEC experience. In the very least, his versatility would make him a potential replacement for Geno VanDeMark. He may not be a starter, but he could be that "sixth-man" on the offensive line that backs up multiple positions. That type of player is invaluable.
Alabama is doing its due diligence on a range of offensive linemen in the portal. Michigan's Kaden Strayhorn is currently on a visit to Tuscaloosa and could be the Tide's Brailsford replacement at center.
Alabama is also trying to get involved with Texas State's Brock Riker and, like pretty much everyone else in need of offensive linemen, NC State's Jacarrius Peak.
You can keep up with all of Alabama's Transfer Portal activity by following this link.