Alabama Football: Where 2021 Tide have the most depth

Alabama football’s reserves would start on most teams

When you recruit as well as Alabama football, you expect to have talent on the depth chart. However, the level of talent on the bench varies every year. Saban aims for balance, but some players develop faster than others, and you can’t plan for transfers.

With that in mind, here is where Alabama football is the deepest heading into spring practice for 2021.

Running backs

It should be no surprise that Alabama has the deepest running back group in college football. It will be led by returning senior Brian Robinson, but the talent behind him will play a pivotal role in 2021. Jase McClellan flashed in 2020. Add in Keilan Robinson and Trey Sanders, and Alabama football has more depth than they’ve seen in quite some time. The Tide might be losing Najee Harris, but the rest of the group will be ready to contribute next season.

Defensive line

The only key piece from 2020’s defensive line heading to the NFL is Christian Barmore. Alabama will be bringing back Phil Mathis, Justin Eboigbe, DJ Dale, Tim Smith and LaBryan Ray. Alabama is at its best when they can rotate bodies in the trenches. Alabama also has some quality defensive linemen from the 2021 recruiting class. Losing Barmore will be tough, but the rest of the depth is ready to step up.

Secondary

With the way college football has changed in recent years, secondaries are more important than ever. Five defensive backs are in a base scheme, and Alabama will usually put a sixth on the field. When that happens, it is vital that the Tide have depth to avoid a weakness defensively. Thankfully, Alabama has five returning defensive backs with starting experience.

The only position that must be filled will be at outside corner. Patrick Surtain was a stud, and his talent will be hard to replace. However, Alabama has the numbers. Multiple players have been in the system for a few seasons, and they will compete for a starting role. Alabama also has a five-star corner and a JUCO transfer coming in this season. Alabama has the guys, and only one person needs to step up and start.

Alabama has what it takes to repeat, and their depth is a big reason why.