The Alabama Crimson Tide have landed veteran linebacker Mikai Gbayor from North Carolina, adding an experienced, battle-tested presence to the heart of their defense. This is a significant pickup as Alabama continues to reload with proven production and leadership.

Gbayor arrives in Tuscaloosa with a résumé that speaks for itself. Across his collegiate stops at Nebraska, Missouri, and North Carolina, he compiled 110+ career tackles, 11+ tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks, showcasing consistency and toughness at the Power Five level.

What makes this addition so valuable is experience. Gbayor has seen multiple defensive systems, faced elite competition, and played meaningful snaps in high-pressure situations. That versatility and football IQ are exactly what Alabama covets in its linebacker room.

On the field, Gbayor brings physicality and downhill aggression. He’s a reliable tackler who fills gaps with authority, diagnoses plays quickly, and isn’t afraid to do the dirty work between the tackles—traits that fit perfectly within Alabama’s defensive identity.

For the Crimson Tide, this move strengthens depth and competition immediately. Gbayor’s presence raises the floor of the linebacker unit and provides a steady, veteran option who can contribute right away while helping set the standard in practice and the locker room.

Bottom line: this is a smart, impactful portal addition. Alabama adds proven production, leadership, and edge to its defense, while Mikai Gbayor gets the opportunity to finish his career on one of college football’s biggest stages. A win for both sides. 🅰️🐘🔥