The University of Alabama has a defensive leader coming back at inside linebacker for next season.

RELATED: REPORT: Alabama has two veteran defensive players expected to return for 2024 season

Deontae Lawson, a native of Mobile, Ala., is running it back with his teammates for 2024.

He announced on social media, "I'm Back," as he wants a national championship. Lawson, a former four-star in 2021 recruiting class, missed three games in 2023 because of an injury.

The 6-foot-2, 230-pounder turned in a good season with 67 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, four pass breakups, and four quarterback hurries in 11 games. He returns as a veteran presence in the linebacker room.

Nothing to be said ! 😡 #DOAxLANK pic.twitter.com/wqYY1DSR61

— Deontae Lawson (@deontae_32) January 4, 2024

Alabama's defense has a chance to be very good next season with Lawson back.

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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine.  You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.