Former Alabama running back Richard Young has announced his transfer to a Big 12 school following three seasons with the Crimson Tide. The 5-foot-11, 212-pound player from Lehigh Acres, Florida, confirmed the move to On3 on Saturday, marking a significant change in his collegiate career.
During his tenure at Alabama, Young accumulated a total of 59 carries for 234 yards and five touchdowns. In the 2025 season, he primarily played a reserve role, securing 23 carries that resulted in 64 yards and two touchdowns. Notably, one of his standout moments came in 2024, when he executed a remarkable 62-yard run during a victory over Missouri.
The football transfer portal opened on January 2, 2026, and will close on January 16, 2026. While players are still able to commit to new schools, they must have submitted their paperwork to enter the portal before the deadline. Young is the only running back to leave the Alabama program after the 2025 season, a significant change as the team prepares for the upcoming 2026 season.
With Young’s departure, the Crimson Tide will face adjustments to their running back lineup. The eligibility of starting running back Jam Miller and reserve Dre Washington has expired, leaving the team with a reshaped roster as they head into the next year. Alabama will need to focus on developing new talent to fill the gaps left by departing players.
The transfer marks an important career shift for Young, who will now seek to make his mark in the Big 12. As college football continues to evolve, players like Young will play a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of their new teams and the broader landscape of the sport.
As the transfer portal becomes a pivotal aspect of college athletics, Young’s decision to move illustrates the ongoing changes and opportunities available to student-athletes. With his skills and experiences from Alabama, he will aim to contribute significantly to his new program in the 2026 season.