What makes Alabama football TE Crimson Tide will benefit greatly from Danny Lewis' comeback following portal access.
Alabama football’s biggest acquisition in the winter transfer portal window came from a decision made by one of its own players. Tight end Danny Lewis Jr., a 2022 three-star recruit from New Iberia, Louisiana, announced he would withdraw his name from the NCAA transfer portal and return to the Crimson Tide for the 2025 season. This news was confirmed to the Tuscaloosa News by Hunter Kirsch of Lionheart Sports Agency.
Lewis, who joined Alabama as a promising recruit, has not yet made a significant impact on the field in his three years with the team. To date, he has recorded just one reception for five yards. Nevertheless, he has contributed to the team in various capacities, including on both offense and special teams. Despite his limited production so far, his decision to return for the 2025 season could signal a larger role for him in the coming years.
As Alabama prepares for the 2025 season, the tight end position will see some changes. Two of the team’s key contributors at tight end, C.J. Dippre and Robbie Ouzts, are set to depart after the 2024 season. Dippre, who had a solid season with 19 catches for 238 yards, is one of the players who will be leaving the program. Ouzts, who served as both a fullback and tight end, will also exit after 2024. Their departures leave a void at the tight end spot that will need to be filled by both returning players and new recruits.
In the 2025 recruiting class, Alabama has already secured two young tight end prospects in Marshall Pritchett and Kaleb Edwards. While these players are highly regarded, the tight end position is one that often requires significant development, particularly in a program like Alabama. Bryan Ellis, Alabama’s tight ends coach, emphasized the importance of experience and physicality in this role, comparing it to the offensive line position in terms of the challenges it presents to younger players. He explained that it is difficult for an 18-year-old to compete consistently against a seasoned 22-year-old, especially in the physically demanding world of the tight end position. However, Ellis expressed confidence in the new recruits, noting that they are aware of the challenges they will face and are mentally prepared for the physicality required at this level.
Despite the influx of young talent, Alabama is also looking for veteran experience at the tight end position. One such option was Luke Hasz, an Arkansas transfer who visited Alabama but ultimately chose to commit to Ole Miss. Alabama has other experienced options, including Josh Cuevas, a transfer from Washington who made an immediate impact with 15 receptions for 213 yards and a touchdown in 2024. Cuevas could return for his redshirt senior season in 2025, adding to the depth at the tight end position.
With Lewis’ return, Alabama now has a veteran presence in its tight end room, which also includes Cuevas, Pritchett, Edwards, and Ty Lockwood. This development provides the Crimson Tide with greater stability and flexibility at the position as they look ahead to the 2025 season and beyond. Lewis’ decision to stay with Alabama adds an important piece to the team’s future plans, helping to solidify a position that is crucial to both the offensive and blocking schemes.
Lewis, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 255 pounds, possesses the physical attributes to be a key contributor for Alabama in the future. His return brings depth and experience to a position that will need both as the team moves forward. The tight end position is known for its physical demands, with players often required to block in the trenches and also contribute as pass catchers. It’s a position that requires a unique blend of strength, athleticism, and mental toughness, and Lewis has shown his ability to handle those challenges, even if he hasn’t yet been a standout performer statistically.
In addition to Lewis, Alabama’s tight end room will benefit from the influx of young talent in Pritchett and Edwards. These players will have the opportunity to develop under Ellis’ tutelage, preparing them to take on bigger roles in the coming years. As Ellis pointed out, the tight end position is one that requires time to develop, and players often don’t hit their stride until they’ve had time to mature physically and mentally. The added experience of Lewis, along with the potential of the younger players, gives Alabama a solid foundation at tight end for the future.
Overall, the return of Danny Lewis Jr. is a significant move for Alabama football, especially as the team looks to reload at tight end for the 2025 season. With veteran experience and the promise of talented young players, Alabama is positioning itself for success at this crucial position. Lewis’ decision to remain with the Crimson Tide provides the team with the stability and depth it needs to compete at the highest level, ensuring that the tight end position will remain a key part of Alabama’s offensive plans in the years to come.
