Defensive lineman O.J. Smith announces intention to transfer

Alabama defensive tackle O.J. Smith announced he has asked for his release on Wednesday morning on his Instagram account. He intends to transfer before what would have been his redshirt junior season.

Smith played sparingly in the last two years after redshirting in 2014. His only tackle in 2016 came against Western Kentucky as a reserve. He had one tackle in 2015 as well. Smith did not project as a regular contributor for Alabama’s defensive line in the coming season with Da’Ron Payne, Da’Shawn Hand and junior college transfer Isaiah Buggs all expected to be key players.

An Alabama spokesman could not immediately confirm his release. Head coach Nick Saban is scheduled to address the media on Thursday morning before a golf tournament for the Nick’s Kids Foundation in Birmingham.

I want to thank The University Of Alabama for being home to me for the last 3 years. After talking with My family and Coach Saban I have decided to transfer and Open up Recruiting. I want to thank Coach Saban and his whole staff for helping me get better everyday and also I want to thank all of my teammates! I will never forget the bond we have and will always stay in touch!! #RollTide

A post shared by Oj Smith (@91_righteous) on Jun 7, 2017 at 7:53am PDT