How is Alabama football shaping up after Week 1 of spring practice? 7 Key Takeaways for the Crimson Tide

It’s the end of the first week of Alabama football’s spring practice, and the Crimson Tide is now on a break for spring break. With the University of Alabama out of session, the team will pause practices from March 10-14, resuming on March 18. After just three practices, the team has already gained some clarity on what it might look like come August 30, when it faces Florida State in the season opener.

As the Crimson Tide heads into the next phase of spring practice, here are seven major storylines to follow.

Quarterback Battle Still Ongoing

All eyes are on the quarterback competition, where Ty Simpson, Austin Mack, and Keelon Russell are vying for the top spot. Despite the intensity of the battle, head coach DeBoer remains unfazed, noting that the first few practices showed flashes of potential from all three players. While Simpson is viewed as the front-runner due to his experience, DeBoer emphasized that no decisions have been made yet. “There’s no rush to make anything official,” said DeBoer, reflecting the team’s approach to the situation. Based on early observations, the depth chart seems to be forming as: Simpson, Mack, then Russell.

Looking Toward 2025

Alabama’s coaching staff, including DeBoer, Grubb, and Wommack, has high expectations for the 2025 recruiting class. Players like Russell, offensive lineman Michael Carroll, and defensive back Dijon Lee have already earned considerable praise. With a tough 2025 opener against Florida State looming, experience will be crucial. Wommack even referred to the Tide’s efforts in the offseason as “the best recruiting job,” signaling how important veteran leadership will be in 2025.

Wide Receiver Group Is Becoming a Strength

Alabama’s receiving corps is shaping up to be one of the team’s stronger units. Ryan Williams and Germie Bernard have emerged as the top targets, but others like Isaiah Horton, Jalen Hale, Derek Meadows, and Lotzeir Brooks are also making strides. With a competitive quarterback battle still unfolding, there’s an increasing belief that the wide receiver room will be a key strength for the team moving into 2025.

Concerns on the Offensive Line

Alabama’s offensive line depth is being severely tested this spring. Due to injuries and absences, the Crimson Tide has had to make do with a patchwork unit. With Kadyn Proctor in a non-contact jersey and Wilkin Formby absent, Alabama has had to shuffle players like Jaeden Roberts and Parker Brailsford into prominent roles. Casey Poe has also been getting reps at right tackle, and true freshmen Jackson Lloyd and Mal Waldrep Jr. are pushing for playing time. While the spring is intended for development, it’s clear that Alabama’s offensive line depth is thin, and the team is feeling that pressure.

A Familiar Coaching Staff on Offense

The Alabama offensive coaching staff is back in action, and there’s an unmistakable comfort level between DeBoer, Grubb, Nick Sheridan, and JaMarcus Shephard. The group’s synergy has helped make play-calling look effortless, and it’s clear that the team isn’t expecting many changes in the offensive system. Grubb mentioned that it’s still DeBoer’s offense, with just a few “wrinkles” that he’s added. This stability among the coaching staff should give the Crimson Tide an edge as they navigate a high-profile quarterback competition.

Defensive Tackle Depth Is Thin

Much like the offensive line, Alabama’s interior defensive line is facing its own depth concerns. According to Wommack, this area of the team is one of the biggest “depth concerns” this spring. While Tim Keenan III and James Smith are set as starters, Alabama lacks proven depth behind them. Players like Edric Hill, Jeremiah Beaman, and Steve Mboumoua are stepping up, but many are unproven at the collegiate level. Kelby Collins and Jordan Renaud, both members of the Bandit position group, are also cross-training at defensive tackle. Wommack was clear: if the development doesn’t happen, Alabama will “address those needs in any way we need to.”

The Defense Appears Set – For the Most Part

Aside from a few question marks on the defensive line and at the Husky position, much of Alabama’s defense is already taking shape. While Deontae Lawson and Justin Jefferson are sidelined with injuries, both are expected to play significant roles at linebacker. Additionally, Nikhai Hill-Green, a Colorado transfer, has stepped in as a leader in a relatively inexperienced group. Keon Sabb, Domani Jackson, and James Smith round out a defense that seems relatively set heading into the season. But the depth behind these key starters is something that’s still in the works, with Alabama hoping to solidify that depth during these spring practices.

Stay tuned as Alabama continues to build its roster and prepares for the season opener against Florida State on August 30.