The quarterback competition at the University of Alabama has everyone’s attention in spring practice, but it is not the lone intriguing aspect for Crimson Tide fans.
Alabama fans have enjoyed one thing, in particular, under Nick Saban in spring football and fall camp. They want to see which freshman or group of young players will have an immediate impact. Since 2008, names such as Mark Ingram, Julio Jones, Trent Richardson, T.J. Yeldon, Amari Cooper, Jalen Hurts, Tua Tagovailoa, Jerry Jeudy, and others showcased massive potential in spring practice as freshmen. Coach Saban saw what they could provide and each one became impactful in the fall for Alabama.
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The Crimson Tide brought in the No. 1 recruiting class for 2023 that included 10 five-stars. Most of the class enrolled early, including a five-star running back. Justice Haynes, a native Georgian, recorded a sensational career at Buford High School.
He rushed for 7,574 yards and 95 touchdowns in his tenure. Haynes averaged 11.1 yards per carry with 23 touchdowns in 13 games during his senior year at Buford. He displayed incredible versatility as a kick return specialist and receiver, totaling nine catches for 239 yards and three touchdowns. The 5-foot-11, 200-pounder has been training nonstop to show fans how explosive he will be for the program. Alabama’s offensive line is bringing a mentality of ‘ruthless’ and ‘scary,’ which creates a chance for Haynes to be a one, two punch with Jase McClellan. Haynes gives the Tide speed, explosiveness, contact balance, power, vision, agility (cutbacks), and versatility. Kadyn Proctor, a five-star offensive lineman, has a shot to start as a guard or tackle for the Crimson Tide, but Haynes’ skill set could elevate him over Roydell Williams and Jam Miller for the No. 2 running back job.
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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.
