Dylan Lonergan Enters the Transfer Portal: Quarterback Depth in Question for Alabama

 

In a surprising move that has left many fans and analysts scratching their heads, Dylan Lonergan, the promising quarterback prospect from Alabama, has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal. The decision comes as a significant development in the ongoing quarterback competition at Alabama, raising questions about the team’s quarterback depth and its future plans under head coach Nick Saban.

Lonergan’s Early Career at Alabama

Dylan Lonergan, a 4-star recruit in the 2023 class, joined Alabama with high expectations. As a highly touted dual-threat quarterback from Snellville, Georgia, Lonergan’s decision to sign with the Crimson Tide was seen as a coup for Saban and Alabama’s recruiting efforts. Lonergan was viewed as one of the program’s future stars, with a skill set that included the ability to make plays both in the pocket and on the move.

However, Lonergan’s path to playing time was always going to be a tough one. Behind him on the depth chart was Jalen Milroe, who had a year of experience as Alabama’s starting quarterback, and Ty Simpson, a fellow former 5-star recruit. The competition for the starting role in 2023 was expected to be fierce, and Lonergan was widely considered a strong contender for future seasons, even if he didn’t win the starting job immediately.

Despite the talent that Lonergan brought to the table, he was never able to break into the starting lineup in his first season. Milroe, after a rollercoaster start to the 2023 season, solidified his position as the starting quarterback after taking over for an injured Tyler Buchner, and Simpson became a reliable backup. Lonergan, who showed flashes of his potential in limited action, found himself buried on the depth chart as the season progressed.

The Transfer Portal Decision

After spending much of the 2023 season watching from the sidelines, it was revealed that Lonergan had officially entered the transfer portal. The announcement sent shockwaves through the Alabama football community, as many had expected Lonergan to remain a part of the team for at least one more season. His decision, however, sheds light on the uncertainty surrounding his future at Alabama and the team’s quarterback situation moving forward.

Lonergan’s decision to enter the portal was undoubtedly influenced by several factors. First and foremost, the depth chart at Alabama is loaded with talent, and Lonergan’s chances of securing the starting quarterback position in the near future appeared slim. Milroe, who had solidified himself as Alabama’s leader under center, would likely remain the starting quarterback for the 2024 season, with Simpson also firmly in the mix.

Additionally, the new NCAA transfer rules have made it easier for players to explore their options and seek playing time elsewhere. Lonergan, with his considerable talent, would likely have no shortage of suitors in the transfer portal, giving him the opportunity to start fresh at another program where he can compete for the starting job.

Implications for Alabama’s Quarterback Depth

Lonergan’s departure leaves Alabama with significant questions regarding their quarterback depth. With Milroe and Simpson the only two quarterbacks with significant experience on the roster, the team could be left with limited options if either player were to be injured or fail to perform at a high level in 2024.

Milroe’s growth as the starting quarterback will be a key focus for the team in the offseason. While he demonstrated flashes of brilliance in his starts during the 2023 season, Milroe also faced struggles with consistency, accuracy, and decision-making at times. As the leader of Alabama’s offense, Milroe will need to take another step forward in his development if the team is to remain a national championship contender.

Meanwhile, Ty Simpson, who was highly regarded as one of the top quarterback prospects in the 2023 class, will likely serve as Milroe’s backup moving forward. Simpson, who was a consensus 5-star recruit, has the talent to potentially be a future starter at Alabama, but his development and ability to contribute in 2024 are still unknown.

With Lonergan’s departure, Alabama may also look to the 2024 recruiting class or the transfer portal to add additional depth at quarterback. Alabama is known for its ability to recruit top-tier talent, and the team could potentially add another quarterback in the coming months to compete for a spot on the roster. However, given the current landscape of college football and the strength of Alabama’s recruiting class, it is unlikely that the team will find a player of Lonergan’s caliber to immediately step in and contribute at the same level.

Reactions from the Alabama Football Community

The decision by Lonergan to leave the program has drawn mixed reactions from fans, analysts, and former players. Some supporters have expressed their disappointment that Lonergan’s time in Tuscaloosa didn’t result in more playing time, while others understand that the quarterback competition at Alabama is always incredibly stiff and that it is difficult to find a path to the starting job.

Former Alabama players and analysts have also weighed in, with some suggesting that Lonergan’s move to the portal is indicative of the high expectations and pressure that come with playing quarterback for such a storied program. Alabama has produced some of the best quarterbacks in college football history, and competition for the starting job is always fierce.

Others, however, have pointed to the success of Alabama quarterbacks who have waited for their opportunity, such as Jalen Hurts, who initially struggled to gain the starting job but eventually led the team to a national title. There is a sentiment among some that Lonergan may have simply been impatient and made the decision too quickly rather than sticking with the program for a few more years to prove himself.

What’s Next for Alabama?

As Alabama’s quarterback situation becomes more uncertain with Lonergan’s departure, the coaching staff will have to reassess the depth chart and potentially make adjustments to ensure that they have a reliable backup option in place for 2024. With Milroe as the projected starter, the focus will likely shift to ensuring that he continues his development and eliminates the inconsistencies that have plagued his performance.

Additionally, Nick Saban and his staff may choose to bring in another quarterback through the transfer portal to add depth and competition. Alabama is known for its ability to attract top talent, and while it remains to be seen whether another high-profile quarterback will join the team, it is certainly a possibility.

Ultimately, the loss of Lonergan raises valid concerns about Alabama’s quarterback depth. Milroe’s continued development is paramount, but the Crimson Tide must also ensure that they have a capable backup ready to step in if needed. As the offseason unfolds, Alabama’s quarterback situation will undoubtedly be one of the most closely watched storylines heading into the 2024 season.