Alabama’s secondary is set to return four of its five starters in 2025. The Crimson Tide will have starting cornerbacks Zabien Brown and Domani Jackson returning as well as starting safeties Keon Sabb and Bray Hubbard. During the 2025 recruiting cycle, the coaching staff placed an emphasis on adding depth and versatility to the back end.
Three incoming freshmen that will provide both are Ivan Taylor Jr., Chuck McDonald, and Dijon Lee Jr.
Lee Jr. is someone who has caught the attention of fans with his size and length at 6-foot-4 and 190 pounds. Not to mention, he has a track background as well. The California native has a rare skillset for modern-day cornerbacks in college football. That could certainly help him see the field more than others would as a true freshman.
McDonald is a player that the coaching staff was high on as well. The product of Mater Dei High School has great technique and coverage skills. He fits the mold of what Alabama is looking for at the cornerback position. He is 6-foot-1 and 190 pounds. Much like Lee Jr., McDonald has a track background too. There is a strong chance that he plays behind his former teammate Zabien Brown in 2025. McDonald could be moved around and worked at different positions as well. His versatility will allow for that to happen.
Taylor Jr. was once a Michigan commit, but the Crimson Tide placed an emphasis on flipping the Florida native. In the end, it was Alabama that landed his signature. Taylor Jr. is capable of playing multiple positions in the secondary including STAR and both safety positions. It will be interesting to see how the coaching staff uses the former four-star.
Alabama’s secondary appears to be a strength for the upcoming season. The trio of freshmen will be valuable additions to the roster and will look to make a name for themselves in the spring.
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Brody Smoot is a team reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “follow” him on X, via @brodysmoot.
