Alabama football fans know the Crimson Tide roster well. What we don’t know much about is the progress of new players or the development of young and little-used returning players.
Every season questions are asked about under-the-radar guys who might have breakthrough seasons. Because of the always deep and talented roster, most of these players must first stand out in special teams’ play.
Let’s consider which guys have a likely chance to also contribute in scrimmage snaps. A breakthrough list is not difficult. At the top would be Kendall Randolph and Jaylen Moody. Both could settle in as starters for the first time in their lengthy Alabama football careers. Other well-recognized names would make any breakthrough list: Terrion Arnold, with a shot to start at cornerback; defensive end, Jamil Burroughs; inside linebacker Deontae Lawson, who has a good chance to rotate with Jaylen Moody; tight end, Robbie Ouzts. Add to the same list two, true freshmen, defensive lineman, Jaheim Oatis and wide receiver, Kobe Prentice.
One name is not included in such a breakthrough list. It is edge linebacker, Chris Braswell. It is uncommon for a player who has never started to have such high expectations. And the buzz about Braswell as an impact player is coming from not just Crimson Tide fans.
A next group of six players makes a good ‘under-the-radar’ list, though what they actually are is either unproven or lesser known.
Alabama Football Under the Radar
Jah-Marien Latham – Defensive End
Like Michael Williams several years ago, Latham came out of Pickens County without much fanfare. Those who paid attention to Latham as a high school player were impressed with the quickness of his first step. He has played very little in two seasons, but that could change for the redshirt sophomore who has a chance to rotate from a two-deep status.
Miles Kitselman – Tight End
Kitselman is the least known of the Tide’s new players. Some insiders have reported he has looked good in fall camp. With Latu out, Alabama needs a tight end who can block and catch passes. Kitselman might be the guy.
Kristian Story – Safety
Story is one of the Crimson Tide’s best athletes. Primarily a quarterback in high school, he has settled into a key backup role at safety. He will get snaps to prepare him for having to replace an injured Jordan Battle or DeMarcco Hellams.
Jahquez Robinson – Defensive Back
Robinson is a third-year player who has seen only limited game action. All Crimson Tide fans need to know is – little used players don’t get mentioned in media reviews by Nick Saban without a reason. During fall camp, Saban said Robinson was showing ability to help in the secondary this season.
Jihaad Campbell – Linebacker
The freshman has so much talent and depth in front of him, his work will probably be in mop-up situations. But he is a potential star at either inside or outside linebacker. When he does get snaps, Tide fans should watch closely.
Roydell Williams – Running Back
Williams is not little known. Alabama will rotate four running backs and Williams will have a key role. More than being part of the rotation, look for Willaims to carry a heavier short-yardage load. With some expectation the Tide will rely more on power running in any yardage situation, Williams may become the lead power-running back.
In at least three of the Tide’s first four games, the six players listed above should see action beyond special teams.