Michigan transfer Keon Sabb has 'it' factor, Kalen DeBoer says
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Alabama landed a commitment from Michigan safety Keon Sabb two weeks ago today, and shortly after the national champion was soon enrolled in classes. Sabb went through his first practice on Monday and already looks the part of a contributor.
“You bring in a guy like him to be an impact player for you,” said Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer after Monday’s practice. “His experiences, not just each and every play but also the experiences in leadership that as he’s here longer and longer that we would expect from him because of the level that he took his team to, winning a championship.
“That fits in well with what we’re trying to accomplish and what we’re trying to do.”
Sabb is the most recent addition to the Alabama roster and the safety room, transferring from Michigan after a coaching change in Ann Arbor. A sophomore this past year, Sabb appeared in 14 games and made five starts at safety for the Wolverines, and he finished the 2023-24 season with 28 tackles, seven pass breakups and two interceptions (one pick-six).
He saved his best for last by recording six tackles and two pass breakups in the national title game against DeBoer’s offense at Washington. He brings experience to a thin position group at Alabama and could help the Tide at either safety spot or even Husky in the spring.
But in addition to what Sabb can do on the field, DeBoer and the new staff like what he brings to the team from a disposition standpoint, which is important in a young secondary room.
“The character makeup aside from, of course, what we know is a great football player, he just is a really good fit for us,” DeBoer said. “It’s been a pleasure getting to know him more and more each and every day, just seeing how he’s operating. Right now, he’s just going about his work, but you can tell he’s got that it factor.
“He’s got the leadership piece within him to where I know we’ll be counting on him this fall.”
Sabb and the Tide will return to the field for spring practice No. 2 on Wednesday, March 6.
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