Alabama football was back on the field for its second day of spring work. Clues emerge about players based on organizational groups.
At the start of spring practice and fall camp, Nick Saban repeats that Alabama football, player organizational groups mean nothing in relation to depth charts. Everyone who follows Alabama football knows that is mostly, but not completely accurate. The organization of players into groups is not random. The groups are often strong clues to where various players rank in the positional pecking order.
The main news on Thursday was that Tua was dressed and working. His injured hand was wrapped and protected by a glove. He did not take part in passing drills but he is expected to resume passing soon.
Let’s look at the current pecking order at some key positions based on the organization groups.
Offensive Line
Alex Leatherwood was working with the second group again. Ross Piersbacher worked at center and left guard. The other centers working on Thursday were Brandon Kennedy and Chris Owens.
Inside Linebacker
All Alabama football fans know, the Tide begins the season short-handed at inside linebacker. Keith Holcombe will only play baseball this spring. There is a chance Holcombe’s MLB opportunities may be so promising he chooses to give up football. He has had a hot bat early in the Crimson Tide’s baseball season.
The other concern about ILB depth is fueled by persistent rumors Vandarius Cowan and Markail Benton are facing future disciplinary action. One or both may be in Saban’s doghouse for undisclosed reasons. Some knowledgeable insiders fear early season game suspensions may result.
If Holcombe does not return and Cowan and Benton miss some games, the only guys behind Mack Wilson and Dylan Moses are Josh McMillon and Ben Davis. The only incoming ILB will be the freshman, Jaylen Moody. That is not a deep bench for Alabama football. With more depth needed, Eyabi Anoma might get his first shot at playing time at inside linebacker, after his summer arrival.
Defensive Backfield
Deionte Thompson is a likely starter at one safety slot. Xavier McKinney and Daniel Wright are expected to battle it out for the other safety position. McKinney has the build and almost the bulk of a linebacker. If he does not start at safety, he would fit in nicely at the Money, hybrid linebacker/defensive back role.
Next: 'Never too Early' 2018 Defense Depth Chart
In case anyone is wondering, Jalen Hurts has only practiced at one position, quarterback. Alabama football returns to the practice field Saturday afternoon.