Alabama is set to lose another one of its top defensive players to the NFL.

First-team All-American safety Deionte Thompson is expected to enter the NFL draft, sources told AL.com.

Thompson ranked second on the Crimson Tide with 79 tackles this season as a redshirt junior and also had a team-high four forced fumbles along with two interceptions.

Word is that Thompson struggled with his decision since the national championship game and met multiple times this week with Nick Saban but ultimately made the final decision to turn pro on Saturday.

It’s a big loss for the Tide defense and adds to the growing list of Alabama underclassmen leaving for the NFL, a list that’s now up to six.

Four players declared for the draft on Friday and cornerback Saivion Smith announced his intent to enter the draft earlier Saturday.

Matt Zenitz is an Alabama and Auburn reporter for the Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @mzenitz.