Alabama Football: Depth chart heading into fall camp

Defensive Line Starters and Backups

Going into spring practice, the defensive line was the position group causing the most concern for Alabama football fans. Somewhat quietly it is emerging as an area of strength in 2017.

Saban learned years ago that when a defensive lineman runs out of gas, he can rarely recover during a game. Previous concerns about 2017 depth have been mostly alleviated. The 2017 Tide will have 8-10 capable players for rotation.

Defensive Tackle – Da’Ron Payne

Payne is the man in the middle for Alabama football and in our opinion is the best in the nation. Spelling Payne will be Josh Frazier and Johnny Dwight. Dwight shared the spring Billy Neighbors defensive lineman award with Da’Ron Payne. If needed, Isaiah Buggs and Da’Shawn Hand can also play inside.

Defensive Ends – Da’Shawn Hand and Isaiah Buggs

Da’Shawn Hand will be expected to fill the Jonathan Allen role. Buggs has impressed since the winter practices prior to the College Football Playoff. The backups will be Quinnen Williams and Raekwon Davis. Davis and Williams performed well in the A-Day game. Kwon Davis was voted the Dwight Stephenson Lineman of the A-Day Game. He had seven tackles and a sack in the A-Day game.

Jamar King is an improved player and can be counted on for additional depth. Late enrollee freshmen, LaBryan Ray will see the field this fall. Physically he is ready and reports are he could be used inside or outside. Phil Mathis is said to be working down some bad weight. It is too early to predict if he will be part of the 2017 playing rotation.