Mercer transfer cornerback Carmelo O’Neal has committed to the Alabama Crimson Tide, bolstering the secondary with a lengthy, experienced defensive back from the FCS level. The 6-foot-4, 200-pound Atlanta native announced his decision on January 10, 2026, shortly after a recent visit to Tuscaloosa. O’Neal, who played two seasons with the Mercer Bears, entered the NCAA Transfer Portal in mid-December and chose Alabama over interest from other programs like Cal, Auburn, LSU, and Kentucky. This move adds valuable depth to a Crimson Tide defense that has seen some departures and is navigating potential NFL decisions from key safeties.
O’Neal brings impressive production from his time in Macon, Georgia. Across 23 games with Mercer, he totaled 56 tackles, 12 pass breakups (PBUs), 2 sacks, and 1 forced fumble. His 2025 sophomore campaign was particularly strong, with around 36-38 tackles (including 30 solo), 9-10 PBUs, 1 sack, and the forced fumble, showcasing his ability to disrupt passing plays and contribute in run support. Even as a true freshman in 2024, he appeared in 11 games with three starts (some at cornerback), recording 18 tackles and additional PBUs. Notably, he faced Alabama in November 2024, tallying three tackles and a pass breakup in a 52-7 Crimson Tide victory at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
The expectation is that O’Neal will transition to cornerback for the Crimson Tide, aligning with Alabama’s preference for taller, lengthy corners under the current staff—similar to the 6-4 Dijon Lee Jr. Listed as a safety at Mercer, his frame, athleticism, and coverage skills make him a versatile fit in the secondary, potentially as a developmental player or nickel option. Alabama’s defensive coordinator values big-bodied DBs who can match up against SEC receivers, and O’Neal’s length could provide immediate help on the perimeter and special teams.
With two years of eligibility remaining, O’Neal joins a growing list of transfer additions for the 2026 roster, including defensive pieces like DL Devan Thompkins (USC) and LB Caleb Woodson (Virginia Tech). This commitment marks one of the latest in Alabama’s portal class, helping address needs in the defensive backfield amid losses like Cam Calhoun and uncertainties with starters Bray Hubbard and Keon Sabb.
O’Neal’s journey from an unranked high school recruit out of Westlake High School in Atlanta to a transfer target for a powerhouse program highlights his rapid development at the FCS level. His stats demonstrate playmaking ability against the run and pass, and stepping up to the SEC will test him against elite competition. Crimson Tide fans are excited about the upside this 6-4 prospect brings to a unit aiming to reload for another strong season.
Overall, this addition strengthens Alabama’s secondary with physicality and experience. O’Neal’s commitment underscores the program’s continued success in the transfer portal, adding a high-upside player ready to contribute as the Crimson Tide builds toward 2026. Roll Tide!
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