Alabama LB cried when he found out he could return to team

Oct 26, 2024; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Justin Jefferson (15) brings down Missouri Tigers running back Marcus Carroll (9) during the fourth quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Will McLelland-Imagn Images

Alabama football’s linebacker, Justin Jefferson is extremely happy to have the chance to return to the Tide for the 2025 season.

Jefferson was granted a fifth year of eligibility after the JUCO transfer linebacker had his best statistical season in 2024. Jefferson became a valuable contributor on the Alabama defense, registering two sacks, 6.5 tackles for loss, 60 total tackles one forced fumble and a pass deflection as a senior in 12 games under Alabama’s defensive coordinator Kane Wommack.

The JUCO product is thankful to be under Wommack again this fall with a chance to develop his game even more.

The Tennessee native made this evident in a recent appearance on the Crimson Tide Sports Network when Jefferson shared insight into what the conversation between him and Wommack was like when he first received the good news.

“Man it was Christmas Day, Coach Wommack called me and was like ‘man I didn’t wanna call you and tell you anything until I knew it was for real but you’re able to come back,'” Jefferson said. “I just started crying because I knew what it was. Like, there wasn’t a doubt in my mind that I wanted to come back and going one more time, little more experience, a little more of all of that. And I feel like this time it’s gonna be real. I feel like it’s gonna be pretty fun.”

With Jefferson back in the fold on defense for Alabama this season, it’ll be interesting to see what new heights the veteran linebacker can reach in 2025.

GET THE BEST ALABAMA FOOTBALL INSIDER INFORMATION AND RECRUITING COVERAGE TODAY! SIGN UP HERETO UNLOCK OUR SUBSCRIBER ONLY CONTENT!*