Alabama Crimson Tide’s redshirt junior linebacker, Keanu Koht, has been suspended from the team. Head coach Kalen DeBoer confirmed the suspension during a press conference on November 11, 2024, stating that Koht did not travel with the team for the LSU game and would not be available for the upcoming matchup against Mercer. DeBoer did not disclose the reasons for the suspension or its expected duration.
Koht, a former four-star recruit from Florida, has had a career marked by injuries and limited playing time. After redshirting his first year in 2021 and participating mainly on special teams in 2022, he appeared in three games in 2023. In the current season, Koht played in seven games, recording five tackles, including half a sack, and recovering a fumble in the victory over South Carolina.
The timing of Koht’s suspension is challenging for Alabama’s defense, which is already dealing with the loss of outside linebacker Que Robinson due to injury. This situation leaves the Crimson Tide thin at the outside linebacker position, increasing the responsibilities of players like Qua Russaw and Yhonzae Pierre.
On November 19, 2024, reports emerged that Koht had filed paperwork to enter the NCAA transfer portal, indicating his intention to seek opportunities elsewhere. He is expected to have two seasons of eligibility remaining.
As the situation develops, the Crimson Tide will need to adjust their defensive strategies to compensate for the absence of key players. The team and its supporters will be monitoring the impact of these changes as Alabama continues its pursuit of success in the current season.
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