While the Alabama Crimson Tide have a lot to celebrate with their No. 4 seeding in the College Football Playoff, they'll be doing so without former five-star recruit wide receiver Ja'Corey Brooks. He's left the program and is entering the transfer portal.
I can?t thank Ja?Corey Brooks enough for what he?s done for the University. Go be great young man. pic.twitter.com/CVvcGzGpfO
— Barstool Bama (@BarstoolAlabama) December 7, 2023
Brooks had a fantastic 2022 campaign, catching 39 passes on 65 targets for 674 yards and eight touchdowns with Bryce Young as his quarterback, but 2023 hasn't been as kind to the former No. 2-rated wide receiver from the 2021 recruiting cycle.
In 2023, Brooks hardly saw the field, seeing nine targets and catching three passes for 30 yards and no touchdowns. His biggest game was a one-catch, 25-yard performance against Arkansas in Week 7. He suffered an injury against LSU on November 4, and from there, his playing time was non-existent.
With him entering the transfer portal, Brooks released a statement on X.
MUCH LOVE??? RTR ? pic.twitter.com/wf6AUIdXvw
— JA?COREY ?C7? BROOKS (@c7_brooks) December 8, 2023
"First and foremost, as I sit down to write this letter, it is both a bittersweet and reflective moment for me as I bid farewell to this incredible football team, our exceptional coach, and the program that has shaped me in countless ways. Coach Saban, your unwavering belief in me and your dedication to our development as athletes and individuals have been nothing short of extraordinary. You have pushed me to my limits, instilled in me a strong work ethic, and taught me the importance of discipline and teamwork. Your guidance has not only made me a better football player but also better human being, and for that, I am deeply grateful," he wrote in his message.
"To my teammates, you have been my source of inspiration and strength. Together, we have celebrated triumphs and lifted each other up during difficult times. The camaraderie we have built is something I cherish deeply, and I will forever treasure the memories we have created both on and off the field."
"In closing, I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to everyone involved in this remarkable program. Thank you for the memories, the friendships, and the invaluable life lessons. I am honored to have been a part of this team, and I will forever carry the spirit of our football family within me. With that being said I will be entering the transfer portal. Love.....#RTR"
Brooks will have his choice of multiple top college programs to go to after leaving Alabama.
