Former LSU CB, Five-Star Recruit Eli Ricks Announces Transfer to Alabama

The former five-star recruit's transfer news caps off a successful National Signing Day for the Crimson Tide.

Out with the purple and gold, in with crimson and white—Eli Ricks announced he is transferring to Alabama. 

The sophomore cornerback is leaving Baton Rouge after an injury-plagued season that saw him enter his name into the transfer portal in November. 

The former five-star recruit started seven games and tallied four interceptions during his freshman campaign in 2020, landing him third-team All-America and second-team All-SEC honors from the Associated Press.  

During the 2021 campaign, Ricks had 11 tackles (nine solo) and played in just six games before his season was cut short due to a shoulder injury. He underwent surgery in mid-October, announcing on Twitter that it was "a success." 

He posted a "personal thank you" to Ed Orgeron and the rest of the LSU staff before announcing his transfer to the Crimson Tide. Ricks told 247Sports, “I was going to wait until next week but I talked to Nick Saban this morning and decided to get it done. I can’t wait to be coached by him, compete for a National Championship and stay in the SEC and test myself against the best of the best." 

His addition caps off a powerful National Signing Day for Alabama, whose class of 2020 is currently ranked No. 1 in the nation by Rivals.com. Over 20 signees joined the Crimson Tide family, 12 of which were listed in SI All-American's SI99 Prospect Rankings. 

Here's how college football Twitter reacted as they highlighted the impact Ricks can have. 

Alabama already had a strong signing day but landing LSU transfer DB Eli Ricks is the cherry on top. Should be an immediate starter when he joins next year.

— John Talty (@JTalty) December 16, 2021

Former LSU CB Eli Ricks announces that he’s transferring to Alabama. The former five-star recruit had four INTs in two seasons in Baton Rouge.

2023 CB1 candidate.

— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) December 16, 2021

Eli Ricks
Earl Little Jr.
Trequon Fegans

Yeah, I’d say Alabama has bolstered its depth at CB. https://t.co/e0iWznprFe

— Clint Lamb (@ClintRLamb) December 16, 2021

I think Eli Ricks to Bama is the first one that really feels like a free agent signing, where you're ready to ride with the rival if the money (opportunity) is right.

— Chris Hagan (@ChrisHaganTV) December 16, 2021

• Bama Central: Alabama Finishes Early Signing Day with No. 1 Ranked Class

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