Crimson Tide steals senior LB from Virginia Tech

The Alabama Crimson Tide moved quickly to respond to the great need of the listejecting the ACC defender from the transfer portal. With multiple veterans gone after the 2025-26 college football regular season, the Crimson Tide secured Virginia Tech standout Caleb Woodson, a move that immediately reshapes the look of the reliever room heading into 2026.

The news was first reported by On3 insider Hayes Fawcett, who shared Woodson’s scope production and suitability in his statement on social networks.

“Virginia Tech standout transfer LB Caleb Woodson has committed to Alabama, tells On3 sports. Over 3 seasons, he has totaled 151 tackles, 3 PD, 2 Sacks and 1 INT. He will have 1 year of eligibility remaining.” Favcett posted on X, formerly Twitter.

It’s his decision drew the curtains on a three-year run with the Hokies and the beginning of a new chapter in Tuscaloosa. His commitment comes at a critical time for Alabama, which is losing Deontae Lawson and Nikhai Hill-Green to depleted eligibility.

At Virginia Tech, Woodson emerged as a reliable presence in the middle of the defense. Over three seasons, he totaled more than 151 tackles, adding a tackle for loss, a pass breakup and an interception. During the 2025 campaign, he finished second on the team in tackles despite missing three games, highlighting both his consistency and impact.

Physically, Woodson brings an NFL-ready frame at 6-foot-3 and roughly 230 pounds. He operated primarily in the box for the Hokies, logging most of his snaps at inside linebacker; however, his background includes splitting time between box duties and slot coverage earlier in his career. That versatility is part of what makes him a valuable addition to Alabama’s defensive staff.

Woodson is expected to compete for a role at weakside linebacker, a position that requires range, coverage ability and physicality against the run. Although it is highly advertised Freshmen like Xavier Griffin represent the futureWoodson provides an experienced bridge, someone capable of stepping into the game immediately while the younger talent develops.

For Alabama, this addition represents more than depth. It is a calculated move to stabilize a group of positions in transition, mixing veteran production with long-term growth. As the Crimson Tide continues to load through the portal, Woodson’s arrival could prove to be one of the the most important defensive moves of the 2026 cycle.