Alabama football defensive back Jaylen Mbakwe is no longer going to be entering the transfer portal, he told On3 on Tuesday.

Mbakwe also posted the On3 announcement to his Instagram on Tuesday, deleting his initial transfer portal announcement.

Mbakwe, a five-star freshman, had filed the paperwork to enter the transfer portal this week. Later Monday night, Mbakwe officially announced his decision on Instagram to enter the transfer portal, calling it a “business decision.”

Alabama finding a way to retain Mbakwe means the Crimson Tide will bring back a talented athlete as well as Ryan Williams’ close friend.

The 5-11, 192-pound cornerback saw time on defense in 10 of the 12 games, tallying 221 snaps per Pro Football Focus. Mbakwe tallied 12 tackles and one interception in 2024.

Prior to arriving at Alabama, Mbakwe played for Clay-Chalkville High School.

The transfer portal will remain open for two more weeks. A player entering the transfer portal does not preclude them from returning. It just allows other schools the opportunity to officially contact players.

Nick Kelly is an Alabama beat writer for AL.com and the Alabama Media Group. Follow him on X and Instagram.