By Adeniyi Precious Should Alabama Go After Carson Beck in the Transfer Portal?
Georgia’s QB Carson Beck has flipped the script on his plans. Initially gearing up for the 2025 NFL Draft, he’s now entering the Transfer Portal. Beck, a two-year starter for the Bulldogs, is set to be a hot commodity, attracting interest and NIL cash from all corners.
Heading into the 2024 season, Beck was seen as a potential first-rounder. But injuries and inconsistent performances put a dent in that prediction. He threw 12 interceptions this season—double his previous total—but still managed to rank 8th nationally in QBR (80.9). To be fair, Georgia’s receiving corps didn’t do him any favors, struggling to replace reliable targets like Brock Bowers and Ladd McConkey.
Beck recently underwent elbow surgery and will likely miss spring practice but is expected to be fully ready by summer. While some Georgia fans are ready to move on and embrace the Gunnar Stockton era, Beck’s potential still makes him an intriguing player.
Is Alabama a Fit for Beck?
Alabama might not be the most likely destination for Beck. The Crimson Tide isn’t known for outbidding rivals in the NIL arena, and Beck will command a hefty paycheck. Early buzz points to Miami as the frontrunner—they’re hungry for an ACC title, have a glaring QB need with Cam Ward gone, and Beck’s girlfriend attends school there. The fit seems natural.
But Alabama has its appeal. The program has a strong track record of developing NFL-ready quarterbacks. Since Jalen Hurts, every Alabama starting QB has been drafted within the first two rounds, including three first-round picks. Beck could be the next in line, with Alabama providing a ready-to-win offense featuring talents like Ryan Williams, Germie Bernard, and Isaiah Horton.
The Quarterback Conundrum
Alabama currently has only three scholarship quarterbacks after Jalen Milroe declared for the draft and Dylan Lonergan transferred. The big question is whether Kalen DeBoer, in his second season, believes Ty Simpson, Austin Mack, or true freshman Keelon Russell is ready to lead the team. If there’s doubt, Beck could be a one-year solution while the younger QBs develop.
However, bringing in Beck might push Simpson to enter the portal, as his opportunities to start are dwindling. Still, Beck’s availability is rare, and taking a shot on a proven QB might be worth the gamble for Alabama, especially with championship aspirations in 2025.
At the very least, Alabama should check in with Beck’s camp. His 2024 struggles weren’t entirely on him, and with the right system, he could bounce back and boost his draft stock. A move like this could position Alabama as one of the top title contenders next season.