Alabama fans are pumped up to see its defense affect Carson Beck, limit Georgia’s rushing attack, and win Saturday, but it also wants to know about the progress of a particular player.
Supporters of the Crimson Tide have shown concern on social media for Keon Keeley.
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The former five-star from Tampa (Fla.) has not played much this season on the defensive line.
He came in Nick Saban’s 2023 recruiting class as an outside linebacker, however, Kane Wommack moved him to field-side defensive end or “Bandit” in his 4-2-5 defense. Keeley has been learning a new position, so it has been a transition for him.
He also added weight to his 6-foot-5 frame, going from 242 to 277 pounds. Keeley is a freakish athlete, but it takes some marquee players time to develop in a program.
He is third at his position behind LT Overton and Jah-Marien Latham.
Freddie Roach, Alabama’s defensive line coach, updated the media on Wednesday about Keeley’s progress.
“He has gotten better,” Roach said. “It is a commitment from him and he has done that. We are going to continue to make him a better player. If he is focused on becoming a better player and nothing else, he will be fine. I am proud of Keon from where he’s come to where he is now, but he’s got to continue to improve.”
Keeley is still growing as a player. Hopefully, everything will come together for him soon.
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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
