Alabama football, Spring Training preview with a projected, offensive depth chart for the first couple of weeks of practice.
The Alabama football offensive staff has it easier than their defensive counterparts. Last season’s explosive offense must be re-staffed but not rebuilt. Roster losses are far less than on defense. Which is not to say they are insignificant. With the departure of Jerry Jeudy and Henry Ruggs III, the Crimson Tide cannot claim to have the best quartet of wide receivers in college football.
Losing Jedrick Wills is considerable but lessened by the return of Alex Leatherwood. Even with Jedrick Wills leaving to be an NFL first-round pick, the Crimson Tide offensive line is in great shape with an abundance of experience.
Replacing Tua Tagovailoa would be daunting in traditional roster exit circumstances. However, the once-in-a-generation quarterback did not make a standard exit. Mac Jones played enough last season and did enough when he did, a QB transition has already occurred. Mac is not Tua but he showed himself to be more than capable.
The running back roster is absolutely loaded. Najee Harris can be a Heisman contender. The depth of talent behind him is amazing.
The biggest Alabama football, offensive weakness last season was at tight end. The position group may not be as thin as last season, but it remains a point of concern.
Offensive Line
First unit in Bold.
Tackle: Evan Neal and Alex Leatherwood; Pierce Quick and Tommy Brown
Guard: Deonte Brown and Landon Dickerson; Emil Ekiyor or Darrian Dalcourt
Center: Chris Owens or Emil Ekiyor or Darrian Dalcourt
None of the three incoming freshmen enrolled early. They are not expected to make an impact in 2020, but the Alabama football staff sees tremendous potential in Javion Cohen.
Quarterback
First team in Bold
Mac Jones; Taulia Tagovailoa or Bryce Young
Mac could possibly be beaten out, but it is unlikely. There will be a competition. Mainly the competition will be to determine QB2 next fall.
Running Back
First team in Bold
Since Crimson Tide running backs rotate, three will be listed as starters in the expected order of carries.
Najee Harris; Trey Sanders; Brian Robinson; Keilan Robinson; Jase McClellan; Roydell Williams
The expectations are high for McClellan. With a strong spring and fall camp, he might get as many snaps as either Robinson.
Wide Receiver
First team in Bold
Devonta Smith, Jaylen Waddle and John Metchie; Slade Bolden; Tyrell Shavers; Xavier Williams
The competition at backup wide receiver will include freshmen, Traeshon Holden and Thaiu Jones-Bell and redshirt junior, Chadarius Townsend.
Tight End
Miller Forristall and Jahleel Billingsley; Major Tennison and Giles Amos
Kendall Randolph and Chris Owens (or another offensive lineman) will again see duty in short-yardage sets. North Carolina transfer, tight end, Carl Tucker will enroll in May and should have a regular role in the fall.
Check out the Pre-Spring Defensive Depth Chart. Bama Hammer will provide updates frequently.