This would be major for Alabama’s defense.
He had worked so hard to become a starter at inside linebacker for the program and Joshua McMillon was about to have his moment as a redshirt senior.
He came in the 2015 signing class from Memphis, Tenn., and was part of a national championship squad, but he desired to be a marquee contributor.
McMillon had learned the entire defensive system and ready to go, until a serious knee injury set him back in August camp.
It was devastating to see his one chance to make an impact on the field go up in smoke, because of a mishap in a preseason scrimmage.
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The injury was deemed season-ending. McMillon, like Dylan Moses, was frustrated in knowing his career may be over before it started. He has continued to be a positive influence in the locker room, in the film room, in the classroom and on the field – when it comes to helping others.
Education is important to McMillon, but Nick Saban wants him on the field.
During his presser on Wednesday, he said the team is petitioning for a medical redshirt for the former four-star. If successful, he will gain a sixth year of eligibility to play.
“We are definitely petitioning for that,” Saban said in getting a sixth year for McMillon.
“He still has a choice as to whether he wants to do that or not. Josh is a really mature, good leader… And I am sure he will make a great decision by coming back. We love to have him.”
Saban mentioned that McMillon, Moses, Trey Sanders and LaBryan Ray are all progressing well in their rehabs. Sanders, like McMillon and Moses, sustained a foot injury in the preseason while Ray hurt his foot in the early part of the regular season.
Hopefully, McMillon will choose to return and be part of the Alabama program.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
