Jehiem Oatis explains decision to leave Alabama, enter transfer portal

Alabama defensive lineman Jehiem Oatis took to Instagram to confirm news reported earlier on Monday. He will not play for the rest of the 2024 season, opting to take a redshirt and eventually enter the NCAA transfer portal. After three years with the Crimson Tide, Oatis felt the need to move on.

The decision was not an easy one according to Oatis and in a letter he posted, the full explanation was explained. His ultimate goal is to prepare for his next destination and bring them great talent along the defensive line in hopes of winning a national championship somewhere.

“To the University of Alabama, my teammates, coaches, fans, and everyone who has been part of my journey since I first stepped on campus,” Oatis began.

“It is with a heavy heart that I have decided to take a redshirt and enter the transfer portal in December. This decision did not come easily but I need to prioritize my future and career. While this season did not unfold the way we had hoped, my love for this school and its incredible fan base remains as strong as ever. I am deeply grateful for the memories and experiences that have shaped me here, and I will carry them with me for the rest of my life.

“As I look forward to the next chapter, I am excited to find a new home where I can bring NFL-caliber play and help my future team compete for championships.

“At this time, all communication will go through my representatives at Young Money APAA Sports, Adie Von Gontard, and Noah Reisendfild. Please respect my decision, and thank you for the support. God Bless.”

Jehiem Oatis broke out as a true freshman and became a feel-good story after dropping weight coming out of high school. But the next couple of years has not gone in his favor, playing in 18 games but only recording 28 tackles, one tackle for a loss, and 0.5 sacks — two years of stats lower than what he produced in the 2022 season alone.