Alabama State QB Andrew Body Decides to Stay Put

Body turned down major offers to return to Alabama State, aiming to elevate HBCU football

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Quarterback Andrew Body, one of the top players in HBCU football, has decided to return to Alabama State University after entering the transfer portal and receiving interest from over 50 programs, including Power 5 schools like Penn State and Vanderbilt. Body cited his love for Montgomery and Alabama State, as well as a desire to help raise the profile of HBCU football, as key factors in his decision to stay.

Why it matters

Body's decision to remain at Alabama State is a significant boost for the program and HBCU football as a whole. As one of the best quarterbacks in the country, his return gives Alabama State a chance to build on their historic 2025 season and potentially compete for a SWAC championship and Celebration Bowl bid. It also shines a spotlight on the talent that HBCUs can produce, which could help drive more attention and opportunities for HBCU athletes.

The details

After entering the transfer portal, Body had over 50 programs interested in his services, including major offers from Penn State, Vanderbilt, Notre Dame, and Tulane. He visited five states in five days and even got a second phone to field all the recruiting calls. However, Body ultimately decided to return to Alabama State, a program he has been with for two seasons. Alabama State's coaching staff, including head coach Eddie Robinson Jr. and new offensive coordinator Tony Hull, played a key role in convincing Body to stay, making him feel wanted and reassuring him about the program's direction.

  • In 2025, Body had a phenomenal season, throwing for 1,770 yards and 20 touchdowns with only one interception, while also rushing for 518 yards and four touchdowns.
  • After the 2025 season, Body entered the transfer portal, drawing interest from over 50 programs across the country.
  • In February 2026, Body announced his decision to return to Alabama State.

The players

Andrew Body

A standout quarterback who led Alabama State to a historic 2025 season and is now returning to the program after entering the transfer portal and receiving interest from over 50 programs.

Eddie Robinson Jr.

The head coach of Alabama State University, who played a key role in convincing Body to return to the program.

Tony Hull

The new offensive coordinator at Alabama State University, who also helped recruit Body to stay with the program.

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What they’re saying

“I love Montgomery, I love Alabama State and they haven't done nothing but good by me. Throughout the process Eddie (Robinson) was staying in contact with me and reassured him where I stand with the university because at the end of the day Alabama State is like a second home for me.”

— Andrew Body (Montgomery Advertiser)

“I always told myself I'm going to be the one that ends up bringing back notoriety to HBCU football and get the NFL looks back at the HBCU. When Deion (Sanders) went to Jackson (State), it was like the Deion effect. I feel with coach Robinson and his status and resume it could be the same type of situation, and I thought it would vital for him to have somebody that in a sense is a protégé. I'm excited to be back here.”

— Andrew Body (Montgomery Advertiser)

What’s next

With the return of Andrew Body, Alabama State looks to build upon their historic success from the 2025 season and make a push for either the SWAC championship and Celebration Bowl or the FCS playoffs.

The takeaway

Andrew Body's decision to stay at Alabama State, despite interest from major programs, is a significant win for the HBCU football community. His commitment to elevating the profile of HBCU football could inspire more top-tier talent to consider these schools, ultimately driving greater visibility and opportunities for HBCU athletes.