Alabama has a running back that is ready for a bounce-back year.
Jase McClellan, a junior from Aledo, Texas, sustained a knee injury against Mississippi in 2021.
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He was the Crimson Tide’s most explosive and versatile back before the mishap. The 5-foot-11, 212-pounder recorded five touchdowns, including three receiving scores last year. He did not participate in spring practice, but Coach Nick Saban said Wednesday that McClellan’s had ‘no limitations’ in fall camp. He has played well and is pushing Gibbs for the starting role.
“He has done great,” Saban said of McClellan. “He is explosive, made some great runs in the last scrimmage, made a lot of people miss tackles, is a good receiver, and can play with power.”
McClellan trained with former Auburn standout Brad Lester in the offseason.
The speed genius expert in Atlanta helped Najee Harris achieve an All-American season in 2020. Lester’s efforts also pushed Harris to become a first-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. He hopes to have the same success with McClellan.
Alabama opens its regular season next Saturday versus Utah State. McClellan is prepared to roll against the Aggies.
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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.
