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Jacksonville State LB Levi Bell Narrows Transfer Choices to Top 3 SEC Schools

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  Published in Business and Finance on Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 4:37 GMT by Action News Jax
      Locales: Florida, Tennessee, UNITED STATES

Jacksonville, FL - February 1st, 2026 - The transfer portal continues to reshape the landscape of college football, and one of the most hotly pursued players remains Jacksonville State linebacker Levi Bell. After entering the portal on January 11th, Bell has now narrowed his options, revealing a top three of SEC powerhouses: Alabama, Auburn, and Tennessee. This announcement has sent ripples through recruiting circles, as these programs prepare to vie for the services of a player widely considered one of the most impactful linebackers available.

Bell, a 6-foot-2, 230-pound force on the field, brings a proven track record of production. Throughout his 41-game career with the Gamecocks, he amassed an impressive 238 total tackles, showcasing his consistent ability to find the ball carrier. His impact isn't limited to sheer volume; Bell also boasts 16.5 tackles for loss, indicating a knack for disrupting plays behind the line of scrimmage. This combination of tackling prowess and disruption makes him a highly coveted asset for any defensive coordinator.

In 2023, Bell earned Second Team All-ASUN honors, solidifying his status as a top performer in his conference. That season saw him record a standout 94 tackles, further illustrating his ability to consistently make a difference. What sets Bell apart isn't just his athletic ability, but his commitment to academics. He was rightfully recognized for his academic achievements as a member of the ASUN All-Academic Team in 2022, demonstrating a well-rounded student-athlete profile that appeals to coaches and institutions prioritizing holistic development.

Recruiting analysts at 247Sports currently rate Bell as a four-star recruit, and he is ranked No. 16 amongst all linebackers in the transfer portal - a testament to his potential and the competition he's sparking. While schools like Kentucky and Mississippi State have also extended offers, the focus has clearly shifted to the SEC contenders.

Why Alabama, Auburn, and Tennessee?

Each of these programs presents a unique appeal for Bell. Alabama, consistently a national championship contender under head coach Kalen DeBoer (as of 2026, continuing the legacy), offers the opportunity to compete for titles immediately. The Crimson Tide have a history of seamlessly integrating transfer players into their dominant defenses. However, Alabama's linebacker corps is already strong, meaning Bell would have to compete fiercely for playing time.

Auburn, under the leadership of head coach Hugh Freeze, is undergoing a significant rebuild, aiming to restore the program to its former glory. Freeze has demonstrated a willingness to embrace the transfer portal to quickly upgrade talent, and Bell could become a cornerstone of this defensive overhaul. The opportunity to be a key piece in a program's resurgence could be incredibly attractive. Furthermore, playing closer to his home state of Florida may be a factor.

Tennessee, led by coach Josh Heupel, has rapidly ascended as an offensive powerhouse. While known for their explosive offense, Heupel has also emphasized defensive improvements, recognizing the need for a balanced team. Bell would fill a critical need at linebacker for the Volunteers, who are looking to take the next step toward SEC championship contention. Tennessee's aggressive defensive scheme could perfectly complement Bell's playing style.

What's Next for Bell?

Bell is expected to take official visits to all three schools in the coming weeks. These visits will be crucial in allowing him to assess the program's culture, coaching staff, and overall fit. The timing is critical, as the second signing period is rapidly approaching. He's projected to make a decision before the end of February, leaving fans on edge as they speculate where this talented linebacker will ultimately land. The impact of his decision will be felt throughout the SEC, potentially shifting the balance of power in one of the nation's most competitive conferences. Observers are noting that the recruiting battles are fierce, with each school offering strong NIL packages to complement the opportunity to play high-level football.

Beyond the immediate impact on the field, Bell's decision highlights the growing influence of the transfer portal in college football and the increasingly complex dynamics of player recruitment. He represents a new generation of athletes leveraging their platform and abilities to find the best fit for their athletic and academic goals.