Alabama outside linebacker wants to be a game changer this fall: “I want to go through you”

Photo via Alabama Athletics

Justin Hill wants to be recognized as a game changer during the 2026 football season in his second year with the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Hill played on defense and special teams as a freshman in all 15 of the Tide’s games last season. He finished the year with 10 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and one pass breakup.

During the Crimson Tide’s A-Day scrimmage, he stood out with his ability to be strong at the point of attack against the run. He stopped several plays behind the line of scrimmage. The Ohio product told reporters after the scrimmage he feels his ability to be successful at stopping the run is a blend of a few different things.

“I feel like my strength has been recognizing plays and recognizing what’s coming to me, being able to play a step ahead,” Hill said. “Obviously, you’re coming with film and watching film, you’ll be able to get better with that, just being physical with my hands, my get-off have been things that I’ve been pretty good at, but just not perfect. I’m striving to get there.”

Hill was a standout against the run. https://t.co/k2IPd0FvB8 pic.twitter.com/wP7GHeZlJ4

— Justin Smith (@Jdsmith31Smith) April 12, 2026

Hill is well aware that just being able to stop the run will not make him a game changer. He also has to be able to get after the quarterback.

“I will just say my effect on the game from the pass-rush level and really just affecting the game, being a guy who can disrupt and change the outcome of the game,” Hill said when asked what he wants to look different about himself in 2026.

He is approaching getting better in this area with a violent mentality.

“I feel like my idea when it comes to pass rush is I want to go through you, not trying to go around you, speed to power is kind of my thing,” Hill said. “So, just working on the little things, trying to get better, striking guys, there’s always something that you can do better.”

A dominant Hill could be a great addition to the Crimson Tide’s defense next season.