Former Alabama football defensive back Kristian Story is staying in the SEC after entering the transfer portal following the 2023 season. Story committed to Kentucky, he announced in a social media post on Wednesday.

Story provided depth for the Crimson Tide in the defensive backfield this season. The senior played in all 14 Alabama games, grabbing an interception and making 15 total tackles.

He played his high school football at Lanett, where he was named Alabama’s 2019 Mr. Football. Story helped lead Lannett to a state championship that season.

Story joined the Crimson Tide as a four-star prospect. He as listed as an athlete as he came to Tuscaloosa, eventually settling in as a defensive back.

He was a major contributor on special teams throughout his career. He entered the transfer portal as part of a flurry of Alabama players exiting the roster following UA’s Rose Bowl loss to Michigan in the College Football Playoff semifinals.

Kentucky went 7-6 during the 2023 season, 3-5 in SEC play. The Crimson Tide visited Lexington in November, leaving with a 49-21 victory over the Wildcats.

Alabama players received an extended window to enter the transfer portal due to the Tide’s CFP participation. The window closed after Saturday and undergraduates will not be able to enter the portal again until April under most circumstances.