The people's voice of reason
The people's voice of reason
UAB's roster overhaul under head coach Alex Mortensen has accelerated through an aggressive and targeted approach in the 2026 transfer portal cycle. The Blazers have added a deep, position‑balanced class that blends Power Five experience, Group of Five production, and developmental upside. According to UAB Athletics, the program has brought in 21 transfer additions.
While the Blazers did lose star wideout Iverson Hooks-who transferred to Oregon after a breakout 1,065‑yard season-UAB's incoming class is built to stabilize the roster and raise the program's competitive floor immediately .
Headliners and Impact Additions
Defensive Front Reinforcements
UAB made the defensive line a priority, landing multiple players with size, experience, and rotational potential:
- Jonathan Allen (DL, Jackson‑Olin) – A 6‑3, 230‑pound interior defender with strong upside and immediate rotational value. Committed early in the cycle and fits the Blazers' need for interior depth.
- Sterling Sanders (DL, Blythewood) – A 6‑5, 295‑pound lineman who brings SEC‑level size and the ability to play multiple spots across the front.
- Christopher Spencer (DL, Pender) – Another 6‑5, 235‑pound defender who adds length and developmental potential.
These additions give UAB a deeper, more versatile defensive line rotation-an area that struggled with consistency last season.
Edge Rushers With High Ceilings
Pass‑rush production was a major offseason focus, and UAB responded with multiple edge additions:
- Blanche Gold (EDGE, Charles Herbert Flowers) – A long, athletic rusher who fits the modern hybrid edge mold.
- Marlin Dean (EDGE, IMG Academy) – One of the most talented players in the class, Dean brings Power Five pedigree and a 6‑5, 275‑pound frame. He briefly re‑entered the portal but remains one of the most impactful additions.
These two immediately raise the ceiling of UAB's pass‑rush unit.
Linebacker Corps Gets a Major Boost
UAB added multiple linebackers with starting potential:
- Mantrez Walker (LB, Buford) – One of the highest‑rated additions in the class, Walker brings speed and physicality.
- Braden Sullivan (LB, New Smyrna Beach) – A steady, experienced linebacker who adds depth and special‑teams value.
- Eli Ennis (LB, Ohatchee) – A veteran Alabama product expected to contribute early.
- Tylan McNichols (LB, Newton County) – A 205‑pound defender with range and developmental upside.
This group collectively transforms the second level of the defense, giving UAB more athleticism and flexibility.
Secondary Additions Strengthen the Back End
The Blazers added several defensive backs who can compete for immediate snaps:
- Diezel Wilkinson (S, East Valley) – A 6‑0, 190‑pound safety with strong tackling ability.
- Jeremiah Jordan (S, Cordova) – A physical defensive back with experience and versatility.
- Jo Pierce (S, Montgomery Catholic) – One of the more highly rated defensive additions, bringing athleticism and instincts.
- Kristopher Wokomah (S, Bowie) – A 5‑10, 175‑pound safety with strong coverage traits.
These signings help stabilize a secondary that needed depth and competition.
Offensive Additions: Rebuilding Skill Positions
Running Back Room Reloads
UAB added multiple backs with different skill sets:
- Javin Simpkins (RB, Norland) – A dynamic runner with burst and versatility.
- Roderick Robinson II (RB, Lincoln) – A 6‑1, 238‑pound power back who brings size and downhill ability.
- Braylon McReynolds (RB, McGill‑Toolen) – A productive Alabama native who adds depth and experience.
- Solomon Beebe (RB, Park Crossing) – A 205‑pound back with strong vision and balance.
This group gives UAB a complete committee-speed, power, and versatility.
Wide Receiver Additions
Even with the loss of Iverson Hooks, UAB added several receivers to reshape the room:
- Corri Milliner (WR, Benjamin Russell) – A 6‑2, 170‑pound target with length and upside.
- C.J. Smith (WR, Mt. Dora) – A 6‑3, 180‑pound receiver with strong athletic traits.
- Xavier Daisy (WR, Greater Atlanta Christian) – A 6‑3, 200‑pound physical receiver who can win contested catches.
This group gives UAB size and depth at a position that needed replenishing.
Tight End and Offensive Line Help
- Scott Isacks (TE, Metairie Park Country Day) – A 6‑5, 240‑pound tight end who can contribute as a blocker and red‑zone target.
- Elijah Lagg (TE, Mountain Home) – Another 6‑4, 235‑pound tight end with receiving upside.
- Cooper Young (OT, Downingtown West) – A 6‑5, 280‑pound tackle who adds depth and developmental potential.
- Daniel Mincey (IOL, Cardinal Gibbons) – A 305‑pound interior lineman with strength and size.
These additions help stabilize the offensive front and give Mortensen more flexibility in personnel packages.
Overall Assessment
UAB's 2026 transfer portal class addresses nearly every position group with a mix of proven production and long‑term upside. The defensive front seven saw the biggest infusion of talent, while the offensive skill positions gained size and versatility.
Mortensen's first full portal cycle shows a clear blueprint:
get bigger, get faster, and build a roster capable of competing immediately.
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