Both former Crimson Tide starters and high school teammates at Carver High School in Montgomery, Ala., the two players came to Tuscaloosa as part of the 2023 recruiting class. Smith saw the field at Alabama first, playing in nine games during Nick Saban's final season, while Russaw took a redshirt for that season.

Alabama's defense got a major boost on Monday. Defensive back Bray Hubbard announced he would return to Tuscaloosa for his senior season.

Alabama football has a key piece of its defense back. Alabama safety Bray Hubbard announced through the University of Alabama's name, image and likeness collective that he would return to the Crimson Tide in 2026 for his senior season.

The Alabama Crimson Tide failed to reach the College Football Playoff semifinals once again under head coach Kalen DeBoer.

Alabama football has delivered quiet results in the portal. But added a former NC State wide receiver on Monday.

Alabama safety Bray Hubbard announced Monday, Jan. 12, through the University of Alabama's name, image and likeness collective, he would return to the Crimson Tide for his senior season in 2026.

The running back that Alabama wanted chose Texas. The receiver that Alabama wanted went to Texas, too. What's next?

Alabama did put a good foot forward by landing former NC State star Hollywood Smothers, the No. 2 running back in 247Sports' Transfer Rankings, three days after the one-time portal window commenced. Smothers would have added a much-needed jolt of energy to a historically bad Alabama rushing effort.