Former 5-Star establishing role as Wolf LB for Alabama

Apr 12, 2025; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama linebacker Yhonzae Pierre (42) runs a drill during A-Day at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary Cosby/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Alabama football’s edge rusher and former five-star, Yhonzae Pierre has settled in at wolf linebacker for the Crimson Tide ahead of year two in Kane Wommack’s 4-2-5 defensive scheme.

The Eufaula, Alabama product played in 11 games during the 2024 season as a redshirt freshman and recorded six tackles, one quarterback hurry and two pass breakups when he earned more snaps after Que Robinson went down with a season-ending injury.

Pierre is expected to be a significant part of the Crimson Tide’s rotation at Wolf linebacker again in 2025, with Qua Russaw expected to start at the position.

Alabama’s linebacker, Deontae Lawson provided an update on Pierre at SEC Media Days.

“Yhonzae, he’s grown into that edge rusher that you want,” Pierre said. “He’s gaining weight. I think about 250 now or something like that. He’s working hard every day. I think he’s establishing himself a role, and I think that’s good because once you find that role, you just attack it full steam, and you’re ready to go.”

The redshirt sophomore will be a player to watch in 2025.

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