Alabama football went with Jaylen Key, a transfer from UAB, as its starting free safety this season.
He earned the starting job in the final week of fall camp because of an injury. Devonta Smith, a former four-star in the 2021 recruiting class, was excelling in preseason camp in the secondary. He grew to become a viable starting option at free safety; however, a foot injury set him back. Smith has not played this year, but Nick Saban did say the Ohio native has made progress.
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He had advanced to 80 percent in dry land running, but sources have confirmed to Touchdown Alabama Magazine that the junior is ‘ahead of schedule.’
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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.
