Alabama loses promising sophomore RB Justice Haynes to the Transfer Portal

Former 5-star RB Justice Haynes is entering the NCAA's Transfer Portal, per multiple reports. The sophomore breakout season that most expected out of the talented running back never came as the Crimson Tide did not do enough offensively to get the backs involved in the offense.

Haynes played a limited role as a freshman, rushing for 168 yards and two touchdowns on 25 attempts. His carries tripled from his freshman season, but it was not the role he was expecting. Haynes rushed for 448 yards on 79 attempts and 7 touchdowns.

Haynes was Alabama's No. 2 RB behind junior Jam Miller and received 56 fewer carries than the junior despite averaging an extra yard-per-carry. He was Alabama's third-leading rusher on the season behind Miller and QB Jalen Milroe.

I would expect Kalen DeBoer and the offensive coaching staff to look for more of a traditional running game next season, something they probably even talked to Haynes about. But going into his junior season, Haynes couldn't afford to wait around another season in hopes of a big role.

Haynes flashed some potential, including a terrific touchdown run against Missouri.

Overall, Haynes was inconsistent and didn't flash enough of the star potential. That could be explained by this offensive scheme not being a good fit for the type of running back he is.

Haynes will be one of the most sought-after names in the Transfer Portal and will have a long list of suitors lining up to try and get him on campus.

This is a disappointing loss for the Crimson Tide, but there's still plenty of talent and depth in the running back room at the moment. As of right now, Jam Miller is expected back for his senior season, and Haynes departing opens up opportunities for Richard Young, Daniel Hill, and Kevin Riley, as well as incoming four-star freshman AK Dear.