Alabama has ‘full trust’ in former 5-Star with multiple defensive linemen out

Sep 13, 2025; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Danny O'Neil (18) is taken down by Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Keon Keeley (31) during the second half at Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Leong-Imagn Images

Alabama defensive lineman LT Overton showed up on the SEC Student-Athlete Availability Report and was listed as out ahead of the SEC Championship game against Georgia.

Kalen DeBoer confirmed Overton, as well as Kelby Collins, will not be available for the SEC Championship game because of “illnesses or medical issues.” This creates a need for a player to step up on Saturday.

A guy who will see the field more because of the injuries is Keon Keeley, a 6-foot-5 282-pound sophomore.

“Guys like that, Keon continued to ramp up his role, someone who now, you know, we’ve really put out there and have full trust in,” DeBoer said. “He’s got full trust and belief along with his teammates and what he can do for us too, so those guys are more than capable, and they’re going to get their opportunity.”

Overton has made plays throughout this season, racking up 33 total tackles and four sacks, but an opportunity has been created for Keeley to step up and show what he’s made of. Keeley has five tackles and one-and-a-half sacks on the season and will be in a position to try and put pressure Georgia quarterback Gunner Stockton this Saturday.

This is the first season that Keeley has played the bandit position in Kane Wommack’s 4-2-5 “Swarm” defense, and his playing time has ramped up over the course of the year. Keeley’s performance as a potential starter will be something to monitor this weekend.