Crimson Tide Linebackers
Outside Linebackers – Will Anderson Jr. and Dallas Turner, with Chris Braswell in the rotation. The top backup will be Quandarrius Robinson.
Inside Linebackers – Henry To’o To’o at Mike and Jaylen Moody at Will; Deontae Lawson will rotate with Moody and should see plenty of action, especially in passing situations. As the season progresses, Lawson could be defined as a third starter. Kendrick Blackshire will be a key reserve. Freshman Jihaaad Campbell will get some playing time.
Cornerbacks – Kool-Aid McKinstry and Khyree Jackson. Terrion Arnold getting the first team nod over Jackson would not be a shock. Instead, the guess is Nick Saban will make the first game decision based on playing experience. When healthy, Eli Ricks wlll also be a factor and could become a starter later in the season.
Safeties – Jordan Battle and DeMarcco Hellams. The primary backup is Kristian Story. Others with possible key backup roles are Brian Branch and Devonta Smith.
Star and Money – Brian Branch at Star and Malachi Moore at Money. The backup situation should be filled with the top two, healthy cornerbacks who are not starters. Terrion Arnold would be a strong possibility.
Punt Returner – With Jojo Earle out, Nick Saban has mentioned Kool-Aid McKinstry and Jermaine Burton. It could easily be one of the Crimson Tide wideouts – if one can consistently field the ball cleanly. Christian Leary seems to be a good option, but that is a guess.