Alabama star outside linebacker announces return for 2026 season

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According to an announcement from Yea Alabama, standout pass rusher Yhonzae Pierre is returning to the Alabama Crimson Tide for the 2026 season.

With the announcement, the redshirt sophomore officially bypasses the 2026 NFL draft to return to Tuscaloosa, and per Yea Alabama, Pierre will also be changing his number next season from No. 42 to No. 0.

A five-star prospect from Alabama's 2023 recruiting class, per the 247Sports Composite rankings, Pierre emerged as one of the SEC's top pass rushers during the 2025 season. This was a breakout campaign for the talented pass rusher, finishing the season with 52 tackles, 14.5 TFL, eight sacks, one pass defense, and three forced fumbles.

Pierre also led the Crimson Tide in both TFL and sacks, while ranking sixth in total tackles as well.

Entering his redshirt junior season in 2026, Pierre should be among the SEC's top returning pass rushers, and will be the starting bandit once again in Kane Wommack's defense.

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This article originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire: Alabama football pass rusher Yhonzae Pierre returning for 2026 season

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