As of March 5, 2025, the Alabama Crimson Tide football team has commenced its spring practice under the guidance of head coach Kalen DeBoer, entering his second year at the helm. The team took to the Thomas-Drew Practice Fields for their second session, providing insights into the roster and coaching dynamics for the upcoming season.
Coaching Staff and Leadership
Coach DeBoer has assembled a seasoned coaching staff to support the team’s objectives:
- Ryan Grubb: Offensive Coordinator (1st season)
- Nick Sheridan: Co-Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach (2nd season)
- JaMarcus Shephard: Assistant Head Coach, Co-Offensive Coordinator, and Wide Receivers Coach (2nd season)
- Kane Wommack: Defensive Coordinator (2nd season)
- Maurice Linguist: Co-Defensive Coordinator and Cornerbacks Coach (2nd season)
- Jason Jones: Safeties Coach (1st season)
- Bryan Ellis: Tight Ends Coach (2nd season)
- Robert Gillespie: Assistant Head Coach and Running Backs Coach (5th season)
- Chris Kapilovic: Offensive Line Coach (2nd season)
- Freddie Roach: Associate Head Coach and Defensive Line Coach (6th season)
- Chuck Morrell: Linebackers Coach (2nd season)
- Christian Robinson: Outside Linebackers Coach (2nd season)
- Jay Nunez: Special Teams Coordinator (2nd season)
- David Ballou: Head Strength and Conditioning Coach (6th season)
Roster Updates and Player Participation
Spring practice has introduced several roster updates, particularly with the integration of early enrollees:
- Keelon Russell: A five-star quarterback prospect wearing jersey number 12, Russell is among the early enrollees participating in spring practice.
- Dijon Lee: A five-star defensive back, Lee joins the team as an early enrollee and is actively engaging in spring drills.
- Michael Carroll: A five-star offensive lineman, Carroll is another notable early enrollee contributing to the team’s spring practice efforts.
Additionally, 18 incoming freshmen have joined the team for spring practice, providing a glimpse into the future of Alabama football. Notably, linebacker Abduall Sanders Jr. is among the new faces contributing to the team’s development during this period.
Spring Practice Observations
During the second practice session, several key observations emerged:
- Quarterback Dynamics: The competition for the starting quarterback position is underway, with Coach DeBoer, Offensive Coordinator Ryan Grubb, and Co-Offensive Coordinator Nick Sheridan closely evaluating candidates. Ty Simpson led the quarterbacks, followed by Austin Mack and early enrollee Keelon Russell. The coaching staff’s hands-on approach underscores the importance of this position battle.
- Injury Management: A number of players were observed in black jerseys, indicating limited participation due to injuries. Notably, left tackle Tyler Proctor is not yet at full strength, leading to rotational experiments at the position, including redshirt sophomore Olaus Alinen and true freshmen Jackson Lloyd and Michael Carroll. Linebacker Justin Jefferson was also in a black jersey but continued to engage in drills.
- Coaching Engagement: Defensive Coordinator Kane Wommack demonstrated a dynamic coaching style, actively moving between groups, starting with linebackers, then sprinting to defensive backs, observing the defensive line, and returning to the defensive backs. This approach highlights a hands-on philosophy aimed at maximizing player development across positions.
The wide receivers and quarterbacks were situated on the far side of the field during the viewing period, limiting direct observations. However, the structured drills and active coaching suggest a focused approach to refining these units.
Looking Ahead
The spring practice sessions are building toward the annual A-Day Game, scheduled for Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Bryant-Denny Stadium. This event serves as the culmination of spring practice, offering fans an opportunity to preview the team’s progress and roster developments. Head Coach Kalen DeBoer expressed enthusiasm for the event, noting the strong fan support experienced in his inaugural spring game and anticipating a similar turnout.
As spring practice unfolds, the integration of new talent, strategic coaching decisions, and position battles will shape the trajectory of the Crimson Tide’s 2025 season. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring developments, particularly in key areas such as quarterback selection and offensive line configurations.
The commencement of Alabama’s 2025 spring practice under Coach Kalen DeBoer marks a pivotal moment in the team’s evolution. With a blend of experienced coaching, emerging talent, and strategic adjustments, the Crimson Tide are positioning themselves for a competitive season. The upcoming A-Day Game will provide further insights into the team’s dynamics and set the stage for the fall season.
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