n the past, Alabama has had a wealth of talent along the defensive line. Players like Terrence Cody, Courtney Upshaw, Jonathan Allen, and Quinnen Williams helped blaze a trail for future success in the trenches at Alabama.
In recent years, the Crimson Tide have struggled to meet or exceed expectations. With that said, there is some urgency and need for production from the group as a whole.
Several of the players that will need to play major roles up front for the Crimson Tide in 2025 are James Smith, Jordan Renaud, Keon Keeley, Edric Hill, and Jeremiah Beaman. Each of which have played sparingly during their time at Alabama. Nonetheless, they will be called on to have an impact on the defensive front moving forward.
Players like Tim Keenan III and LT Overton headline the defensive line room. The pair had strong junior campaigns in 2024.
Will the other defensive linemen that I noted be able to step up in a big way in 2025. In a press conference last week, defensive coordinator Kane Wommack noted the lack of depth along the interior defensive line.
If some of these players can step up and prove themselves, the concern for depth could slowly disappear.
The question is: Will Alabama’s core of defensive linemen rise to the occasion in 2025?
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Brody Smoot is a team reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “follow” him on X, via @brodysmoot.
