BREAKING NEWS: West Virginia Transfer Tight End Jack Sammarco Commits to Alabama
In what could be a pivotal move for the Alabama Crimson Tide, former West Virginia tight end Jack Sammarco has officially committed to Alabama, per a report by Pete Nakos of On3. The 6-foot-5, 260-pound tight end brings size, strength, and valuable Power Five experience to a Tide roster that has been looking to bolster depth at the position.
Sammarco, who played in all 13 games for the Mountaineers during the 2024 season, showcased his versatility and toughness in both blocking and receiving roles. While his stat line may not have popped off the charts, coaches and scouts alike have praised his physicality, football IQ, and room for growth. His ability to contribute in the trenches and as a potential red-zone threat makes him an ideal addition to the Alabama offense.
With three years of eligibility remaining, Sammarco not only provides immediate support but could also develop into a long-term asset for head coach Kalen DeBoer and tight ends coach Joe Cox. The Crimson Tide were in urgent need of reinforcements at tight end after finishing spring camp with just one healthy scholarship player at the position. Injuries to Josh Cuevas, Danny Lewis Jr., and Marshall Pritchett left the unit depleted, and while touted freshman Kaleb Edwards is set to arrive this summer, the room clearly needed another body—and Sammarco fits the bill.
Alabama is reportedly not targeting splashy, big-name transfers this cycle. Instead, DeBoer and GM Courtney Morgan are focusing on strategic additions who can contribute without disrupting the culture or existing depth chart. Sammarco checks those boxes and more. He may not arrive as a headline-grabbing superstar, but he represents the kind of under-the-radar acquisition that championship programs quietly rely on.
The former Mountaineer will likely compete for the in-line blocking tight end role—a position previously held by Robbie Ouzts. That role is critical in Alabama’s offense, particularly in short-yardage and goal-line situations. Sammarco’s frame and skill set make him a top candidate to take on that assignment immediately, assuming he adjusts well to the new system and coaching style.
Beyond the Xs and Os, this commitment signals a growing confidence in Alabama’s vision under Kalen DeBoer. Even without Nick Saban, the Crimson Tide continue to attract high-level talent from the Transfer Portal. Sammarco’s decision to choose Alabama over staying put or exploring other Power Five opportunities speaks volumes about what the Tide staff is building.
While fans eagerly await Sammarco’s arrival in Tuscaloosa, this move also adds another layer to the evolving story of how Alabama is reloading—not rebuilding—under new leadership. With the 2025 season looming, Jack Sammarco could prove to be one of the more important pieces added this offseason.
Alabama’s tight end room just got tougher, and the rest of the SEC should take notice.
