This is a major reason why Bray Hubbard came back to Alabama

Nov 30, 2024; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Bray Hubbard (18) celebrates with defensive back Malachi Moore (13) after intercepting a pass against the Auburn Tigers during the second half at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Alabama won 28-14. Mandatory Credit: Gary Cosby Jr.-Imagn Images

Alabama Crimson Tide safety Bray Hubbard left a plethora of both fans and analysts surprised when he announced his return to Alabama this offseason. 

The star safety would have been one of the top defensive backs available during the NFL Draft in April. Hubbard ultimately decided to return to Tuscaloosa for his senior campaign, and the safety was able to reveal his reasoning behind the decision. 

“There was a lot that went into the decision, but ultimately when you look at it and when I looked at it with my family and everything like that, it’s crazy to think about that,” Hubbard told reporters. “I’ve only played a year and a half. It feels like I’ve played two years, but I’ve only played in the defense for a year and a half. And so, there’s a lot more that I can put on tape for my career at the next level, but also coming back and being one of the leaders of this team. And helping, you know, bring this program back. I shouldn’t say bring it back, but, just helping the program strive for greatness and helping these young guys and getting them, you know, into the process and trusting the process.”

Hubbard has recorded 7 interceptions, 5.5 TFL and two total sacks across his first three seasons in the Crimson Tide’s secondary. The senior will once again find himself playing an essential role in 2026, and Hubbard could quickly begin to dominate throughout his fourth and final season at Alabama.