There was some back-and-forth, but ultimately, former Alabama Crimson Tide DL Damon Payne will sign with the Michigan Wolverines. Payne reportedly initially signed with the Wolverines Wednesday morning, but there were conflicting reports that his signing was voided. However, he cleared up the confusion with a commitment post-Wednesday evening.
The former four-star recruit was ranked No. 39 overall in the 2021 recruiting cycle and the No. 9 DL prospect and will see significant minutes for the maize and blue immediately. He becomes the Wolverine’s fifth transfer portal commitment of the cycle with just one year of eligibility remaining.
In 2024, Payne recorded 14 tackles and a fumble recovery with Alabama after being mostly a rotational piece the previous two seasons. Payne is a Michigan native and had been heavily pursued out of high school by now-head coach Sherrone Moore.
For Alabama, it likely isn’t a massive loss as he wasn’t going to be a starter in 2025, but a lack of depth never helps. It will be interesting to see what DeBoer and his staff are able to find in the transfer portal.
https://twitter.com/petenakos_/status/1869591370874429718?s=46
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For Alabama, it likely isn’t a massive loss as he wasn’t going to be a starter in 2025, but a lack of depth never helps. It will be interesting to see what DeBoer and his staff are able to find in the transfer portal.
https://twitter.com/petenakos_/status/1869591370874429718?s=46
Contact/Follow us @RollTideWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Alabama news, notes and opinion. You can also follow Sam Murphy on Twitter @SamMurphy02.
Follow all your favorite Alabama teams at Roll Tide Wire and Auburn Wire!
