Ty Simpson excited to potentially get Alabama tight end back vs. Oklahoma

Mandatory Credit: Gary Cosby Jr.-Imagn Images

Alabama football’s tight end, Josh Cuevas had his best game as a member of the Crimson Tide against Oklahoma in November.

The California native pulled in six receptions for 80 yards and a touchdown against the Sooners. Unfortunately for Cuevas and the Tide, this performance marked the last time Cuevas suited up for a game and played. The tight end has been sidelined with a lower-body injury for several weeks.

Media members spotted Cuevas riding the stationary exercise bike at practice on Monday. He no longer sported a boot on his foot, and he did not have on a black non-contact jersey.

Kalen DeBoer updated the health of the tight end during his Monday press conference.

“Cuevas, very similar to Jam, making progress out there, doing some work,” DeBoer said. “I guess you’re optimistic at the point. We still got four days at this point, so those guys are heading in a good direction, making good progress. We’ll continue to evaluate them moving forward, but you guys saw them out there doing some things today.”

Alabama’s starting quarterback Ty Simpson and Cuevas have connected a lot this season. Cuevas has 30 catches on the season to go along with 341 receiving yards and four receiving touchdowns. Simpson was asked about Cuevas’ contribution to the Tide’s offense on Monday.

“Josh is an excellent player, so not only is he great in the pass game, but he’s great in the run game as well,” Simpson said. “Being able to just see him on the field and have him have his presence is just remarkable, especially having in huddle, just a different type of vibe when he’s in there. I am very excited about that.”

Alabama would love to be at full strength Friday with Cuevas healthy and ready to go. However, it remains to be seen if this will come to fruition.

The Tide and the Sooners collide in the first round of the College Football Playoff on Friday, Dec. 19. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. CST. The game will be broadcast live on ABC and ESPN.