Alabama does not have a dominating force on its defensive line, but it does have an inspiring player who returned for a fifth season after suffering a significant injury last year.
Justin Eboigbe, a native Georgian, came to the University of Alabama as a four-star defensive end in 2019. He worked his way into being a productive player until a neck/spine injury sidelined him early in 2022. Eboigbe decided to come back for another campaign, and the move paid off. He spent 10 months recovering from surgery, but he is playing his best football this season.
RELATED: Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe named a finalist for Manning Award
Eboigbe is tied for third on the team for total tackles (57), including 10.5 for loss and six sacks.
He also stands with four quarterback hurries and a pass breakup. The 2020 College Football Playoff National Champion is one of 15 semifinalists for the Associated Press/College Sports Communicators Comeback Player of the Year Award.
Semifinalist ➕ Comeback Player of the Year@JustinEboigbe https://t.co/xFPZx2vwcU#RollTide pic.twitter.com/WBaRFfoy3H
— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) November 30, 2023
The AP and CSC announced all semifinalists on Wednesday morning. The Comeback Player of the Year honor has been awarded since 2018 and it recognizes college football student-athletes who overcame injury, illness, or other circumstances.
Alabama has never had a player in its history to win the Comeback Player of the Year Award.
Eboigbe could be the first one as he leads the Tide’s defensive front against Georgia for an SEC Championship opportunity.
*Get the BEST Alabama football insider information, message board access, and recruiting coverage today! SIGN UP HERE to unlock our subscriber-only content!*
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.
