TUSCALOOSA, Ala.– The University of Alabama is one of few programs where countless talent moves on to the National Football League, yet plenty of four and five-stars remain around for an opportunity.
For Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban, his process awaits an outside linebacker that will push for a chance to fill shoes left by Tim Williams and Ryan Anderson. Anfernee Jennings, a sophomore, represents the next wave of edge rushers under defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt and outside linebackers coach Tosh Lupoi.
Before embracing a savage mentality, Jennings was a four-star prospect from Dadeville (Ala.) High School. He was one of the nation’s top defensive line recruits, finishing his career with 437 total tackles and 29 sacks.
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Jennings’ efforts on the field earned him first team 4A All-State selection honors and made him a finalist for the 4A Lineman of the Year, via the Alabama Sports Writers Association. He took the 2015 season to learn under guys like Williams, Anderson, Denzel Devall, Dillon Lee and others, but now, the 6-foot-3 and 265-pound specimen expects to be a pivotal factor in the Tide’s contention for a national championship in the fall.
Alabama’s coaching staff saw flashes of how good Jennings can be throughout the 2016 campaign. He finished with 19 tackles, including two for loss (-13) and three quarterback pressures. The former defensive end turned in quality performances against LSU (four tackles) and Florida (three stops) in the Southeastern Conference title game, limiting both schools to under 100 yards rushing. Regardless of fierce competition at jack linebacker – Christian Miller, Terrell Hall and Jamey Mosley – Jennings has the potential to be a monster.
Stephen M. Smith is a managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
