Budding Alabama pass-rush specialist primed to be impactful in SEC play

Sep 13, 2025; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Yhonzae Pierre (42) react after a successful stop during the first quarter against the Wisconsin Badgers at Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Leong-Imagn Images

Alabama football wolf linebacker and former five-star, Yhonzae Pierre looks primed to play his best football in SEC play for the Crimson Tide.

Pierre is in his third year with Alabama. He has contributed at linebacker for the Tide in every game this season, despite not starting in any of them. He has totaled seven total tackles, three tackles for loss (tied for team high) and a sack while playing in those games. The trajectory of Pierre taking a huge step this season has been clear for a while now.

“Yhonzae, he’s grown into that edge rusher that you want,” Alabama linebacker, Deontae Lawson said in July at SEC Media Days. “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.”

Pierre earned five-star status as a prized recruit at Eufaula High School in Alabama as one of the most explosive edge-rushing prospects Touchdown Alabama has ever evaluated. His first step was extremely quick, and it was obvious this part of his game was still intact when the Tide started fall camp.

Alabama LB Yhonzae Pierre played in 11 games last season, and his snaps could increase in 2025.

The 6-foot-3, 248 pounder still possesses the explosiveness and quick twitch that made him a dynamic edge-rushing prospect. pic.twitter.com/X5RKjEow9I

— Justin Smith (@Jdsmith31Smith) August 2, 2025

Pierre got home for his first sack of the season against Wisconsin when he performed a stunt up front with Lawson to spring free and get a free shot at Danny O’Neil, flashing what could be something the Tide sees a lot in SEC play.

Yhonzae Pierre stunts inside and gets the sack! #RollTide pic.twitter.com/AvoE8yL1z4

— Im not a fan of your favorite team (@fsh733) September 13, 2025

With him listed at 6-foot-3 and 248 pounds, some may be concerned with his ability to hold up against the run. He has played well against the run so far this season, but his biggest impact will likely be as a pass rusher over the next few weeks.