It went through a grueling fall camp, but Alabama is starting to notice young alphas emerging on the defensive line.
Nick Saban complimented Justin Eboigbe and Jaheim Oatis in camp, but Tim Kennan III and Jah-Marien Latham have earned recognition as well. Both arrived as four-stars in their respective classes and they are in-state products. Kennan came from Ramsay High School in Birmingham (Ala.), while Latham hails from Pickens County High School in Reform, Ala.
RELATED: Alabama DL Tim Kennan III is ‘playing like a starter,’ according to Nick Saban
Kennan and Latham have a redshirt by their name, so they have been in the system for a while.
They have encountered good and rough moments, but both are ready to contribute to the team. Alabama does not have a dominant personality on the line, but one of these two — if not both — could be that for the team. Chris Braswell, an outside linebacker, spoke highly of Kennan and Latham in Tuesday’s interview with reporters. He is excited for both players.
“They have done a tremendous job,” Braswell said. “They are well into the playbook, stepping up as leaders on the field, they are doing the little things right, and they are great guys. They are going to make a great impact this year.”
RELATED: Alabama DL Jah-Marien Latham in a position to make an impact
Kennan dropped weight, cutting from 343 to 315 pounds. He brings explosive power, but he now adds quickness as a nose tackle in the middle. Latham has been viewed as an undersized lineman; however, he is a very good athlete who knows the defense.
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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.
