Alabama bringing in transfer quarterback Tyler Buchner for visit
The quarterback competition currently going on at Alabama is far from over. We saw returning players Jalen Milroe and Ty Simpson battling it out throughout the spring, but on Tuesday afternoon, we learned that a third signal-caller might be added to the mix soon in Notre Dame transfer Tyler Buchner.
According to FootballScoop, Buchner is expected to visit Alabama as soon as Tuesday night.
It shouldn’t come as a surprise if Buchner’s time in the portal is short-lived. The former top-100 recruit was coached by Alabama offensive coordinator Tommy Rees for two seasons in South Bend, so there’s already familiarity there. He was also Notre Dame’s starter heading into last season before a shoulder injury forced him to miss most of the season.
Granted, he was able to return for the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl against South Carolina. In that game, he totaled 324 yards (273 passing, 61 rushing) with five total touchdowns and three interceptions. In fact, his play was a major reason why the Fighting Irish were able to overcome a 24-10 second quarter deficit to win 45-38.
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“I love Notre Dame,” Buchner said, via Twitter. “The people, and especially my teammates, are what makes this play special to me. I have decided to enter the transfer portal in order to explore my options, and decide what is best for my future. After discussions with coach Freeman, remaining at Notre Dame is thankfully an option I’m going to consider. I am truly thankful to everyone for their support during this process.”
Buchner has a problem turning the football over in limited action (eight career interceptions and only six touchdowns), which is something he can’t do if he were to join the fold in Tuscaloosa. That said, Rees knows this guy and the talent he brings to the table. So if the new play-caller believes Buchner can bring something more to the offense and quarterback room, fans should probably trust him.
After redshirting in 2022, the 6-foot-1, 215-pounder is now a redshirt sophomore with three years of eligibility remaining. Coming out of La Jolla (Calif.) Helix in 2021, Buchner was rated as the No. 94 player nationally (No. 14 QB), according to the On3 Industry Rankings. He chose Notre Dame over several high-profile schools, including Alabama, Georgia, Michigan and USC.
Stay tuned for more updates on this story.
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