Alabama redshirt sophomore running back Derrick Gore announced this week that he would be transferring for his final two seasons of eligibility.
The 5-foot-11, 212-pounder from Syracuse, N.Y., rushed 18 times for 93 yards (5.2 yards per carry) and a touchdown this past season for the Crimson Tide, who wound up 14-1 following Monday night's 35-31 loss to Clemson in the national championship game. Gore finished sixth on the team in rushing and fifth among tailbacks.
Alabama's top four tailbacks - Damien Harris, Bo Scarbrough, Josh Jacobs and B.J. Emmons - are all expected back for 2017.
"These past two years have been nothing short of magical," Gore posted on Instagram. "It's difficult to come up with the words to describe this journey here at the University of Alabama. At this time, I've chosen to explore the option of joining another program for my final two years of eligibility.
"To be clear, I want to give a special thanks to Coach (Nick) Saban and Coach (Burton) Burns for giving this kid from New York a shot. I'm forever grateful."
Gore's biggest play this season occurred on special teams, when he blocked a punt in the 54-16 rout of Florida in the Southeastern Conference championship game that Jacobs returned 27 yards for a touchdown.
Alabama has scheduled a news conference this afternoon for juniors who are deciding whether to leave early for the NFL. Among those expected to announce decisions are left tackle Cam Robinson and receiver ArDarius Stewart.
The announcement sent by the university did not mention redshirt sophomores. Cornerback Marlon Humphrey is a redshirt sophomore who has not publicly declared his plans for this year.
Contact David Paschall at dpaschall@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6524.