Alabama would have liked to retain outside linebacker Qua Russaw, but it was immediately clear that Kalen DeBoer was not willing to pay a premium to do so.
Not with the emergence of Yhonzae Pierre, who was going to be the unquestioned starter at the Tide's Wolf LB spot regardless of whether or not Russaw returned. And with freshman Justin Hill providing quality snaps with Russaw hurt, exploring a position change for the once 5-star prospect was perhaps best for all parties involved.
But Russaw wants to be an edge rusher, despite barely flashing at the position. In three seasons in Tuscaloosa, he managed just two sacks.
In terms of name value, Russaw was a loss in the Transfer Portal for Alabama. In terms of actual, on-field production? Not so much. The production never matched the potential, and it's clear that Ohio State fans are finding that out quickly during spring practice.
Russaw left Alabama with no starting spot guaranteed and is apparently far from a lock to earn one on the Buckeyes' defense. Russaw is reportedly locked in a position battle with Alabama native Zion Grady and fifth-year senior Beau Atkinson.
Qua Russaw may not start for Ohio State after transferring from Alabama
Russaw's biggest issue is not understanding what's best for him. It's obvious that he's not a true edge rusher, and never will develop into one. But with his athletic ability and speed, he could make a heck of an off-ball LB, and if he had been open to that position change, one that gives him the best shot at an NFL career, then he'd likely still be in Tuscaloosa and starting spring practice at the top of the Alabama depth chart.
The biggest frustration from losing Russaw was that it cost Alabama DT James Smith, too, who joined Russaw in the portal and also landed in Columbus. The two were high school teammates and a package deal in their recruiting class, and remained a package deal despite three seasons of college football.
But DeBoer and GM Courtney Morgan were resolute in not overpaying for potential anymore, particularly for guys who hadn't lived up to their recruiting billing across three seasons.
And early returns on Russaw in Columbus are showing that they probably weren't wrong, and that Russaw is quickly seeing that the grass might not be greener up north.