Washington Huskies quarterback Austin Mack (10) Jonathan Hui-USA TODAY Sports

After top recruit's departure, Alabama adds 'Cam Newton lite'

By Cameron Kiszla | Last updated 1/19/24

With five-star quarterback Julian Sayin entering the transfer portal, the once-likely future face of Alabama football will take his talents elsewhere. Fortunately for the Crimson Tide, though, new head coach Kalen DeBoer found an able replacement.

Sayin — who only participated in team activities during Rose Bowl/College Football Playoff prep — could be a star, but the portal gives as much as it takes.

In Alabama's case, DeBoer landed a transfer from his former team, the Washington Huskies, in quarterback Austin Mack, a 6-foot-6 former four-star recruit and four-star transfer, according to 247Sports.

College football analyst Brock Huard bemoaned the detrimental effect these transfers can have on "young, talented players," but he was full of praise for Mack, calling him "Cam Newton lite [with] a better delivery."

Yet another gut punch to the development of young, talented players. Austin lights up a room & at 6’6 plus his presence & arm are unique.

I can promise you all the SEC scribes & Bama social sites will marvel at Mack’s set of physical traits. Cam Newton light w/a better delivery https://t.co/LMtRZ6hgtl
— Brock Huard (@BrockHuard) January 19, 2024

Whether Mack will become Alabama's starter is far from a sure thing. 2023 starter Jalen Milroe is returning and so is five-star recruit Ty Simpson, who stands a good chance of nabbing the backup role. Four-star passer Dylan Lonergan also figures to be in the mix.

So while the loss of Sayin stings, Alabama fans can take heart knowing the quarterback room has been reinforced with high-level talent. All DeBoer must do now is find more players in the portal when it reopens on April 16.

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