Alabama Sophomore Defensive Back Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. has been Suspended Indefinitely.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The Alabama Crimson Tide football program will be without one of its young defensive backs for the foreseeable future after sophomore safety/defensive back Dre Kirkpatrick Jr.

was arrested over the weekend and subsequently suspended indefinitely, the team confirmed Monday.

At his Monday press conference, head coach Kalen DeBoer announced that Kirkpatrick Jr. has been suspended “until further notice.” He emphasized that, having spoken directly with the player, the university must enforce consequences. “Unfortunately with the information I have at this time … he understands there are consequences that come with his actions,” DeBoer said.

According to jail records and university reports, Kirkpatrick Jr. was booked into the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office (Tuscaloosa County Jail) at noon on Saturday, November 1, during the Crimson Tide’s bye weekend.

He faces three counts of reckless endangerment, one count of attempting to elude law enforcement, and a speeding charge. Within about an hour of his booking, he posted bond of $1,500 and was released.

Kirkpatrick Jr., the son of former Alabama standout and NFL cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick Sr., is listed on the roster as a backup strong safety behind starter Keon Sabb and has appeared in all eight games this season.

His stat line includes nine tackles, a tackle for loss, and a forced fumble.  While he has not been a full-time starter, his presence provided depth and potential for increased role as the season progresses.

The timing of the arrest comes at a pivotal moment for Alabama’s campaign — the Tide currently hold a strong record and are preparing for a major conference matchup. According to reports, the program is already proceeding with its internal investigation into the incident, and its future evaluations will likely determine Kirkpatrick Jr.’s eligibility to return.

For the Alabama coaching staff, the incident represents another test of program culture and disciplinary standards under Coach DeBoer, who has spoken repeatedly about accountability and upholding team values. In electing an indefinite suspension rather than a shorter, defined ban, the program is signalling that significant violations of conduct will come with real consequences.

For Kirkpatrick Jr., the road ahead will include both legal and institutional hurdles. The arrest records will remain part of his public record, and how he responds—both legally and within the program—will determine the next chapter of his collegiate career. As for the team, they will move forward without his availability for at least the near term, and will likely depend on other members of the secondary to step up in his absence.

The Crimson Tide face off next in a high-stakes encounter, and the absence of Kirkpatrick Jr. underscores the broader message that behaviour off the field can affect opportunity on it. Until the investigation concludes and the program decides otherwise, Kirkpatrick Jr. will remain suspended and unable to participate in team activities.