Reasons why the Crimson Tide will field an Elite Defense in 2020
By Cj Dew
SECONDARY: In terms of talent and ability, the Tide lacks neither. Losing head hunter Xavier McKinney to the NFL Draft definitely hurts this defense, but let’s not act like we have not seen this same scenario. In fact, Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide are used to reloading. Replacing McKinney will likely be sophomore Jordan Battle, who played a strong amount in 2019 collecting 18 tackles, one interception, and one pass deflection according to ESPN. Along with losing McKinney, cornerback Trevon Diggs will look to have his name called on day one or two of the draft.
The cornerback position will have a good battle between Josh Jobe and Jalyn Armour-Davis. Armour-Davis looked to provide much-needed depth last season before dealing with a nagging knee injury. Jared Mayden has used every bit of eligibility, so look to see a few different names trying to grab a starting strong safety spot, such as redshirt junior Daniel Wright and sophomore Demarcco Hellams. Wright appeared in 13 games for the Tide in 2019 posting eight tackles, and it would not be surprising to see him be the front runner for the strong safety slot. Last but not least, Patrick Surtain II will return to the other corner position, after posting a strong 2019 with 42 total tackles, three forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and two interceptions. This very well could be Surtain’s last season with the Tide, as he will be eligible for the 2021 NFL Draft. The Tide are in a great position to bounce back in the secondary.