Alabama's starting quarterback at the beginning of the month is reportedly no longer in the program.
Redshirt freshman Blake Barnett, who started the opening 52-6 rout of Southern California, did not practice with the Crimson Tide on Wednesday. His departure from the team was reported by AL.com, but Alabama coach Nick Saban did not confirm that following Wednesday's practice.
"I know there is a lot swirling around about Blake Barnett," Saban said in a news conference. "He did come to see me today before practice with some concerns about his future. Blake is a fine young man, and he's done a great job in this program.
"We would love to see him be a part of the program in the future, and I also want him to do what's best for him."
After two series in the opener, Barnett was replaced by true freshman Jalen Hurts, who ignited a 38-point outburst after the Trojans had taken a 3-0 lead. Hurts started the second game, a 38-10 win over Western Kentucky, and he went the distance in the 48-43 win at Ole Miss.
In last week's 48-0 win over Kent State, Barnett came off the bench and was 4-of-7 passing for 55 yards and a touchdown.
Barnett is 11-of-19 for 219 yards and two touchdowns this season, and he leads the Southeastern Conference in efficiency with a 189.5 rating. Saban said the university will make a statement if Barnett's departure becomes official.
"My focus has to be on the players who are committed to the team," Saban said.
The top-ranked Crimson Tide continued preparations Wednesday for Saturday night's home game against Kentucky, which is 2-2 overall and 1-1 in SEC play. Redshirt junior Cooper Bateman, who made one start last season, is working now as the top backup to Hurts.
Where injuries are concerned, sophomore tailback Damien Harris (ankle) and junior receiver Robert Foster (knee) have practiced this week, Saban said, while junior receiver ArDarius Stewart (knee) has done some running.
"I can't really tell you who could or couldn't play," Saban said. "These will all be right-before-the-game decisions."
Contact David Paschall at dpaschall@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6524.