Former 4-Star Dee Liner to Transfer from Alabama

Alabama defensive lineman Dee Liner, a top-50 recruit from the 2013 recruiting class, has been granted his release from the university and is free to pursue transfer.

The rising junior from Muscle Shoals, Alabama, has played sparingly the past two seasons, appearing in just four games and recording three tackles.

He confirmed the news in a tweet Monday afternoon:

Liner was an Under Armour All-American and one of the best recruits in the country two years ago. He is 6'3", 295 pounds and capable of playing defensive end or tackle, depending on the scheme.

But a stacked Alabama defensive line made playing time hard to come by. Jonathan Allen, A'Shawn Robinson, Jarran Reed, Dalvin Tomlinson, D.J. Pettway, Da'Shawn Hand and incoming 5-star recruit Daron Payne blocked him on the depth chart. For that reason, Barrett Sallee of Bleacher Report called this move inevitable:

Liner chose Alabama over Auburn on national signing day 2013, announcing his decision on ESPNU. He is best suited as a 3-technique in a 4-3 defense, where he can rush with quickness from the interior.

Scott Carasik of Bleacher Report suggested Tennessee and Georgia as potential scheme fits, although it's too early to confirm mutual interest. Kentucky and Miami offered him scholarships in high school, too.

USA TODAY Sports

Either way, Liner will have to sit out next season, per NCAA transfer rules, unless he drops to the FCS level or earns an eligibility waiver. Those waivers are granted for extenuating circumstances, and as Liner appears to be transferring over playing time, it's unlikely he will get one.

Alabama has the star power and depth to survive without Liner, but whichever team lands him will be getting a high-upside piece to build around. You can't teach size and quickness, both of which Liner has, but you can teach scheme and technique.

We'll keep you updated as we learn more about his future.

Note: All recruiting info refers to the 247Sports composite rankings.