A former top in-state prospect out of high school, Kelby Collins has returned to the state of Alabama this fall.
One of the new faces to the Alabama Crimson Tide, Collins comes to Tuscaloosa this season from the NCAA transfer portal, as the talented defensive lineman transferred during the offseason from within the SEC after spending the previous two seasons at Florida.
With this move back to his home state, Collins is expected to now play a significant role for the Crimson Tide defense this fall, and could be set for a career-year.
Here is a look at everything you need to know about Alabama defensive lineman Kelby Collins entering the 2025 season.
Kelby Collins player information
- Position: Defensive Line
- Jersey Number: No. 17
- Height: 6’4
- Weight: 275
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Gardendale, Alabama
- High School: Gardendale
Kelby Collins career stats
This will be the third collegiate season for Collins, the previous two of which were spent within the SEC at Florida. In Gainesville, Collins compiled a total of 29 tackles, two TFL, 1.5 sacks, one PD, and one forced fumble across his two seasons.
Kelby Collins 2024 stats
A year ago at Florida, Collins saw action in only six games for the Gators as a sophomore. Collins had six tackles a year ago.
Kelby Collins recruiting ranking
Collins was a former top prospect out of high school in the state of Alabama, ranking as the nation’s No. 45 overall recruit in the 2023 class, per the 247Sports Composite rankings. A four-star prospect, Collins ranked as the No. 5 defensive lineman nationally, as well as the No. 6 prospect in the state of Alabama out of Gardendale High School prior to attending Florida.
Prior to Alabama, Collins was considered a four-star prospect in the transfer portal this past offseason, according to 247Sports. Collins, who committed to Alabama in Dec. 2024, was also ranked as the No. 177 overall player in the portal, as well as No. 24 defensive lineman.
Kelby Collins 2025 season outlook
While likely not officially listed as a starter entering this season, Collins will essentially see the same amount of time that Alabama’s starters do along the defensive line.
Collins is expected to be a prominent name at the bandit position along Alabama’s defensive front, likely coming as the Crimson Tide’s primary backup behind starter LT Overton. A prospect capable of lining up at almost any spot on the defensive line, Collins is also a strong run stopper who is a solid pass rusher as well, and could make an impact in multiple different areas this season.
Overall, expect Collins to make a big impact for the Crimson Tide defense this season.
Kelby Collins 2025 season prediction
- 2025 Prediction: 35 tackles, 4.5 TFL, 2.5 sacks
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This article originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire: Alabama football 2025 preview, predictions: Kelby Collins
