Alabama Football: Building the 2024 roster, Jan. - May schedule

Though no practices will occur until mid-March, the Alabama Football program will be very busy from now until May, In this time of fluid rosters, the 2024 Alabama Crimson Tide may need all of the next five months (or longer) to become settled.

• Now through Jan. 6, the Transfer Portal is open
  

• The NFL Early Entry Deadline is Jan. 15

• Late Signing Day for the 2024 class is Feb. 7

• Projected date for the start of Spring Practice is Mar. 18

• Additional Transfer Portal Entry Window is Apr. 15 - Apr. 30

Theoretically players could be added to the Crimson Tide up to the Fall Academic Session, enrollment deadline. Nick Saban is expected to have the 2024 roster set before the start of Fall Camp, if not sooner.

Alabama Football and Scholarship Numbers

The only number that applies is the 85 scholarship limit in the fall. Alabama football insiders are speculating that 10-12 players will exit to reach the scholarship limit. There will be a flurry of announcements is the next two weeks. The latest news is Dallas Turner leaving early for the NFL and Tide wide receiver, Shazz Preston entering the Transfer Portal.

Having previously entered the Portal were quarterback Tyler Buchner, wide receiver, Ja'Corey Brooks and defensive linemen, Anquin Barnes and Iasiah Hastings. Crimson Tide players who have used all their eligibility are Will Reichard, Darrian Dalcourt, Justin Eboigbe and Jaylen Key.

Alabama football fans wonder if any top players forego early NFL entry. It is anticipated Jase McClellan, Roydell Williams, J.C. Latham, Kool-Aid McKinstry, Terrion Arnold, and Malachi Moore will make the move to the NFL. Chris Braswell and Deontae Lawson may as well, but in Lawson's case another season in Tuscaloosa could improve his Draft stock.

For many Crimson Tide fans, the most burning issue is what happens at center. The most vocal are sure Nick Saban must move on from Seth McLaughlin. If that occurs, the next man in line would be Terrence Ferguson II. Ferguson spent much of the 2023 season injured but has experience at guard and center. It is also possible that Nick Saban may add a center through the Portal.