Former Crimson Tide captain joins Alabama coaching staff

Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer gestures during a first-round College Football Playoff game between the University of Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and the Alabama Crimson Tide at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Okla., Friday, Dec. 19, 2025. Alabama won 34-24.

Former Alabama Crimson Tide captain Jarret Johnson will be on staff helping with the defensive line this season, per Yea Alabama. 

Johnson was nothing short of an elite defensive end on the Crimson Tide from 1999-2002. The former Alabama captain could prove to be an excellent addition to the Tide’s staff this season, as Johnson is expected to work closely with the defensive line throughout the entirety of 2026. 

The Crimson Tide’s defensive line will feature a handful of new faces this season following the departure of multiple veteran linemen. Devan Thompkins and Terrance Green are expected to make an instant impact throughout their first year in Tuscaloosa, while sophomore London Simmons will look to shine in year two. 

Johnson will undoubtedly play a significant role on the Tide’s coaching staff this season following the announcement. The former Alabama star went on to have a 12-year career in the NFL following his four seasons in Tuscaloosa, and Johnson now finds himself as a critical component to the Tide’s defensive line success once again in 2026.