He got reps at the position for Alabama football in spring practice, but now the move is official.
Freddie Roach, Alabama’s defensive line coach, opened Wednesday’s fall camp practice with Keon Keeley.
The former five-star from Tampa (Fla.) came in the Crimson Tide’s 2023 recruiting class as an outside linebacker. He is now solely with Roach, Jamey Mosley (defensive analyst, defensive line), and the defensive line. Keeley looked as if he added weight and muscle over the summer. The 6-foot-5 edge rusher drove veteran lineman, Jah-Marien Latham off the ball in a drill.
Former 5-star Keon Keeley was recruited at outside linebacker.
Freddie Roach had other plans.
Keeley is a full on defensive lineman.@TDAlabamaMag @TouchdownETP pic.twitter.com/2qzkdXP7Pl
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) July 31, 2024
He is competing against Latham for an opportunity to start as a “Bandit” end up front.
RELATED: Alabama defensive lineman returns for fall camp after missing time in spring practice
Keeley wears No. 31 out of respect for Will Anderson, but he provide what “The Terminator” brought to Crimson Tide’s defense across three seasons? Anderson was a two-time SEC Defensive Player of the Year, two-time Unanimous All-American, two-time first-team All-SEC selection, two-time Bronko Nagurski Trophy winner, Chuck Bednarik Award winner, Lombardi Award winner, and Lott Trophy winner. He also propelled Alabama’s defense to a College Football Playoff National Championship in 2020 as a true freshman. It is a tall order to follow Anderson; however, Keeley has the size, length, athleticism, and edge-bending capabilities to get it done. He would strike fear in the hearts of offensive linemen and quarterbacks if he puts it all together.
The move for Keeley to defensive end opens up the Tide’s pass rush and helps its secondary.
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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
