It's not always easy for fans to be patient when it comes to highly recruited players. The expectation, particularly at skill positions, is that those players are going to be able to immediately contribute.
But that's not always the case, even for players with elite talent.
AK Dear was the No. 2-ranked RB in the 247 composite for the 2025 recruiting cycle, but he was unable to carve out a consistent role as a freshman despite the Crimson Tide's struggles running the football. He had flashes, most notably an explosive 56-yard touchdown run in Week 2 against UL Monroe, but he spent most of the year buried on the depth chart.
Heading into the 2026 season, it appears that Dear is positioning himself for a substantial role on the Tide's offense as a sophomore. While Daniel Hill looks like the obvious starter, Dear may have the inside track to the RB2 spot for now, though 5-star freshman EJ Crowell will certainly have something to say about that as he continues to get more comfortable.
Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb had praise for Dear after practice on Monday, stating that the sophomore RB had a TD catch on a wheel route, while also praising his development from year one to year two.
When asked what has allowed Dear's development to take off, Grubb gave one simple word before expanding upon it more.
"Maturity," Grubb said. "The things he thought were possible then (last year) compared to what he thinks are possible now are very different. I think he’s a great teammate. He’s a guy who can lighten the mood, spark guys a little bit, and that’s been something that has been really enjoyable. Also, just being a better football player. AK understanding protections was one of the issues in getting on the field, and he’s come a long way.”
AK Dear's maturity has him positioned for a significant role in Alabama's offense
After losing NC State transfer Hollywood Smothers to Texas, Kalen DeBoer and the staff decided to rely on organic growth in the RB room, along with the addition of two potentially impactful freshmen in Crowell and Trae'shawn Brown.
That decision could pay off in a major way.
Hill has earned a lot of praise from coaches and teammates alike for the work he put in this offseason. He looks ready to shoulder a bigger workload, and he's the leader of the room overall. While Kevin Riley is a solid back in his own right, it's hard to argue against Dear and Crowell being the two most talented running backs on the roster. They were certainly the most highly thought of on the recruiting trails.
Grubb's words on Monday are a good reminder not to set the bar too high for Crowell. Understanding the protections and being a strong pass blocker are pivotal for a young RB in earning a role on the offense. That's going to be the biggest thing separating Crowell from serious playing time. If he can figure that out, the sky is the limit for him, even as a freshman.
Dear wasn't ready to do that a year ago. Based on Grubb's comments today, it appears he's ready now. That would be a significant development for the Crimson Tide's RB room. His talent has never been in question, but the mental side of things clicking could unlock a real weapon for Alabama.
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