Given the dismal performance of the UAB Blazers this season, it came as little surprise when many experts predicted the departure of several key players on both sides of the ball. This outcome seemed inevitable, especially as head coach Trent Dilfer struggled to meet expectations throughout the campaign. The Blazers experienced some of their worst performances in program history, and the lack of success left their top talents with compelling reasons to seek new opportunities in the transfer portal.
Photo Cred: UAB
One of the first to make the move was UAB’s starting quarterback, Jacob Zeno. A seasoned veteran, Zeno faced numerous challenges throughout the season, both on and off the field. Before being sidelined with a shoulder injury, Zeno had accounted for 916 yards, six touchdowns, and five interceptions—numbers that clearly reflected his struggles and the overall struggles of the offense. These statistics, coupled with the team’s overall performance, made it increasingly evident that Zeno was likely to seek a fresh start elsewhere, signaling the end of his time at Protective Stadium.
The departure of Zeno, while significant, was not the only major loss for UAB. Lee Beebe Jr., the face of the Blazers’ offense, also entered the transfer portal, marking a devastating blow to the team’s already fragile offense. Beebe Jr. had been a critical component of the Blazers’ game plan, particularly in their aggressive rushing attack. Although the Blazers only managed to secure three wins this season, Beebe Jr. played an essential role in moving the ball downfield and finding the end zone. Without his contributions, it is hard to imagine the Blazers would have had any victories at all. His decision to leave UAB further emphasized the team’s struggles and the lack of stability within the program.
Over the past three seasons, Beebe Jr. became a fan favorite and a symbol of resilience in the city of Birmingham. The Blazers gave him the chance to play competitive football, and he worked tirelessly to prove himself. This season, Beebe Jr. had a career-high in carries and emerged as one of the top running backs in the conference, rushing for a total of 1,103 yards and eight touchdowns. Had UAB been more successful on the field, Beebe Jr. would have easily been recognized as one of the conference’s premier talents. However, with the Blazers’ poor record and limited national attention, his outstanding individual performance went largely unnoticed.
Photo Cred: UAB
As two standout players with significant experience, both Zeno and Beebe Jr. were eager to move on to programs where they could compete at a higher level and improve their chances of reaching the NFL. With their aspirations of making, it to the professional ranks, staying at a struggling UAB team, which finished the season with a dismal 3-9 record, would have limited their visibility and draft prospects. As they pursue opportunities with winning programs, they hope to enhance their exposure and prove their worth to NFL scouts.
For UAB, this exodus of talent leaves the team in a precarious position. Head coach Trent Dilfer now faces the daunting task of rebuilding a roster that has lost some of its most dynamic players. The Blazers will need to make a significant push in recruiting to replenish their talent pool and revitalize the program. They will also need to hope that the remaining players on the roster can step up and help shift the narrative next season. With a commitment to improvement, it remains to be seen whether UAB can rebound from this challenging season and regain relevance in college football.
