Alabama fans have not seen aggressive play from its inside linebackers since Reggie Ragland, Reuben Foster, Shaun Dion Hamilton, and Rashaan Evans.
They believe the duo of Kevin Steele and Robert Bala as defensive coaches can bring it back, but does the Crimson Tide have the pieces in its rotation to be dangerous at the position? Nick Saban seemed very pleased Thursday after the first practice of fall camp to talk about inside linebackers to reporters. He is very ‘happy’ with the unit, especially having Deontae Lawson healthy.
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Lawson, a redshirt sophomore, did not practice in the spring. He was recovering from knee surgery.
“Deontae Lawson played really good football when he played last year,” Saban said. “He sat out the spring and got his knee worked on. He had a really good summer. He has good leadership and a good understanding of the defense. Jihaad Campbell has made really good progress. We have lots of competition at the position, so I am pleased with the way these guys are progressing.”
Alabama was down two outside linebackers — Dallas Turner and Chris Braswell — and Lawson in the spring, but it provided opportunities for young players to get reps. Saban said he likes the leadership in the linebacker room as a whole; however, the inside linebacker play is going to be crucial for the team. He mentioned that Justin Jefferson (a junior college transfer) is still getting comfortable learning the defense. He had a good spring, including a strong A-Day performance, but we will see where he fits into the rotation. Alabama’s national championships have come from lite play by its inside linebackers, and fans want more.
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Lawson and Campbell have stood out, but we shall see who else emerges.
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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.
