Alabama offensive lineman transferring to Georgia Tech

Joseph Ionata, who spent two years with the Tide, will be joining former teammate Jaylen Mbakwe.

Georgia Tech fans celebrate during the second half against Syracuse on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, at Bobby Dodd Stadium in Atlanta. (Hyosub Shin/AJC 2025)

By Chad Bishop

Jan 6, 2026

A second former member of the Alabama Crimson Tide is transferring to Georgia Tech.

Offensive lineman Joseph Ionata intends to play for the Yellow Jackets, according to On3. Ionata spent two years with the Tide and would be joining former Alabama defensive back and wide receiver Jaylen Mbakwe.

Ionata (6-foot-5, 306 pounds) played a total of 74 offensive snaps over two seasons with Alabama and logged 72 special-teams plays this past season.

Georgia Tech starting center to transfer

A former 3-star recruit, according to the 247Sports Composite, Ionata was a standout at Calvary Christian in Clearwater, Florida. His brother, Mike Ionata, is senior at Calvary Christian and signed to play at Florida State.

Ionata joins TCU long snapper Cal Keeler; Rice punter Alex Bacchetta; Dartmouth tight end Chris Corbo; and Rutgers defensive lineman Jordan Walker as offseason acquisitions for the Yellow Jackets.

Second Georgia Tech wide receiver to transfer

About the Author