What will Alabama football look like in 2024? Examining the roster

California’s Pasadena A number of Alabama football players indicated a desire to return to work, alternating between regret over the season ending in the CFP semifinals and displeasure with how the Rose Bowl concluded.

“Next year,” stated Tim Keenan III, a defensive tackle. “We’re going to have to start over next year. We must put forth considerably more effort.”

Right now, the most important query is: Who will be at that drafting board?

The transfer site and, finally, NIL have complicated matters regarding the roster for the upcoming season. Nonetheless, a broad idea of the roster for the upcoming season may be ascertained, even with potential departure curveballs and additions made through the portal or recruitment.

This is a preliminary look at the Crimson Tide’s offense, defense, and special teams.

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Offense
First, let’s discuss quarterbacks. Jalen Milroe declared his return, and he’ll probably be a favorite to win the Heisman Trophy. Observing who else is in that room with him will be an intriguing aspect. It’s packed. Ty Simpson, Dylan Lonergan, Eli Holstein, and five-star signee Julian Sayin are scheduled to be on the roster as of Monday night, but things might change.

Running back, it appears to be another deep bunch. Both Roydell Williams and Jase McClellan are seniors, but they both might return next year. Richard Young, Jam Miller, and Justice Haynes—who flashed in the Rose Bowl—are behind them. However, given that four-star Kevin Riley signed with the 2024 class, there might be some changes. If every guy stays, that’s a lot of guys in one place. This season, the backfield already felt congested.

All members of the wide receiver corps are still eligible if they so want. However, there’s also a chance that someone like Jermaine Burton would sign with the NFL. There are options for players like Jalen Hale, Isaiah Bond, Malik Benson, Kendrick Law, and Kobe Prentice. The influx of freshmen signees doesn’t make it all that surprising to see a few reach the doorway. Ryan Williams, who has committed to Alabama and stated he will make his decision in February, ought to be among them.

Amari Niblack, Robbie Ouzts, and CJ Dippre are all eligible at tight end. Each has contributed to Alabama’s success this season in a different way.

There should be some changes on the offensive line. With JC Latham probably heading to the NFL, right tackle will become available. Kadyn Proctor, a left tackle, and guards Tyler Booker and Jaeden Roberts are expected to return. The most important query is still at the core. Although Seth McLaughlin is eligible, it could be best for both parties to break up. Elijah Pritchett, who spent some time at left tackle this season, will be a contender for the right tackle position. But Alabama is adding Naquil Betrand, an offensive tackle from Texas A&M, who might fit in well there.

Alabama’s defensive lineman are all healthy again. Even Justin Eboigbe, the defensive end, is still eligible. Additionally, Alabama has added LT Overton, a defensive lineman from Texas A&M, via the transfer portal.

Linebacker is expected to see the biggest alterations. Following the Rose Bowl, Dallas Turner declared that it was his final match with Alabama. When he finishes his fourth season, Chris Braswell might accompany him to the NFL. This implies that there would be an open edge location or perhaps two. It is likely that Quandarrius Robinson will be able to fill one. Keon Keeley, Yhonzae Pierre, and Qua Russaw are also expected to return for Alabama, but since they are all young and inexperienced, the Tide may yet be able to recruit an edge defender through the transfer portal. Internally, Deontae

The secondary characters who undergo the most disruption. Terrion Arnold and Kool-Aid McKinstry, two cornerbacks who could be selected in the first round of the NFL Draft if they declare, would both be wise to leave for the NFL following successful seasons. That would free up two corner spots. Trey Amos, who was the top reserve in the secondary in 2023, is well-positioned to replace one of them. In addition, Alabama boasts young players like Dezz Ricks, Earl Little Jr., Antonio Kite, and cornerback Domani Jackson from USC who is transferring in.

Since Jaylen Key has used up all of his eligibility at safety, one safety place is available. A player like DeVonta Smith, who missed part of 2023 due to injury, might join Caleb Downs. There ought to be strong competition in that area.

Speaking after the Rose Bowl, senior Malachi Moore was evasive about his future plans. Regaining him as a permanent captain and secondary leader would be beneficial. The Tuscaloosa News was informed by secondary coach Travaris Robinson that Moore is “the smartest guy on the team.” However, he might head to the NFL.

Will Reichard, the all-time highest point scorer in NCAA history, finished his undergraduate career in Pasadena, therefore Alabama will need to recruit a new kicker. Conor Talty is a strong contender to succeed him.

However, punter James Burnip still qualifies. “Love my brothers, back to work” was the social media statement he made following the Rose Bowl.

Kneeland Hibbett, the long snapper, is a junior and will probably return.

Nick Kelly covers Alabama football and men’s basketball as the beat writer for The Tuscaloosa News, a USA TODAY Network affiliate. Contact him via nkelly@gannett.com or follow him on X, the social networking platform that was formerly known as Twitter, as @_NickKelly.