Nick Saban reveals what transfer running back Jahmyr Gibbs brings to the Alabama roster

Despite Georgia Tech’s 3-9 record in 2021, Jahmyr Gibbs emerged as a breakout star. So one can imagine how excited Nick Saban is to have the former Yellow Jacket at Alabama next year.

Saban had some high praise for his new addition on Wednesday.

Gibbs was the No. 3 transfer in the portal, according to the On3 Transfer Portal Rankings. He was a four-star recruit out of high school and maintained that star value despite a slight dip in his college rating.

In 2021, Gibbs rushed for 746 yards and four touchdowns on the ground, but also caught 35 passes for 465 yards and two touchdowns. He’s versatile, and that’s something that stood out to Saban.

“Gibbs was a very productive running back at Georgia Tech,” Saban said on National Signing Day. “Very fast, very explosive guy, has really good hands. [He] actually practiced with us before the national championship game. We’re excited about the speed and explosiveness. He’s a really good receiver. I think he can do a lot of positive things for us.”

More on Jahmyr Gibbs’ commitment to Alabama

The Alabama Crimson Tide took advantage of the transfer portal on offense this year, landing wide receiver Jameson Williams from Ohio State. This year, they added another offensive weapon via the portal for the upcoming 2022 season.

Georgia Tech’s Jahmyr Gibbs announced his transfer destination, with Alabama winning out. The running back burst onto the scene as a true freshman last season and proved to be one of the best all-purpose backs in the country throughout his sophomore year.

Gibbs will now bring over 1,211 total yards and six touchdowns to Tuscaloosa with him. 746 of the yards and four touchdowns came on the ground. His best performance of the season came against Miami, where Gibbs averaged 12.6 yards per touch and got into the endzone twice — one rushing and one receiving.

Running back has been a position of struggle for Alabama this season. Combining the loss of Najee Harris to the NFL and injuries at the position has been detrimental. Brian Robinson Jr. has been carrying to load for most of the year, rushing for over 1,000 yards heading into the College Football Playoff.

However, Robinson will be leaving after the season, leaving a huge void in the room. Jase McClellan will be coming off a serious injury and Trey Sanders is still working back to full speed after a few injuries. Gibbs will provide a huge boost instantly to the Crimson Tide backfield.