Alabama has plenty of players who should contend for end-of-season hardware, so when making a list of players most likely to win a major award from each team, it's not easy to narrow it down for some of the top teams in the country.
That's certainly true of Alabama. With the firepower offensively, it stands to reason that either Keelon Russell or Austin Mack - whichever comes out on top in the QB competition this fall - could be in the Heisman Trophy conversation. If Ryan Coleman-Williams has the kind of breakout season many are expecting, he could contend for the Biletnikoff for the nation's top WR.
On the defensive side of the ball, Alabama's secondary is loaded with guys who could be in the Thorpe Award consideration, with Bray Hubbard and Zabien Brown as the most likely candidates.
But for ESPN's Harry Lyles Jr., his money is on stud pass rusher Yhonzae Pierre, Alabama's Wolf LB, competing for the Butkus Award for the nation's top linebacker.
Yhonzae Pierre is Alabama's top award candidate, per ESPN
Pierre took full advantage of his opportunity as a starter last season following the September injury to Qua Russaw. Pierre gave Alabama's defense the pass-rushing jolt it had been lacking, racking up eight sacks and 14.5 tackles-for-loss.
Pierre could be Alabama's single most important player defensively next season. If he takes another leap, he could become one of the top edge rushers in college football.
On ESPN's list of most likely award winners for Top 25 teams, Pierre was the choice for Lyles.
"The winner of the quarterback competition has a chance to be in the Heisman conversation given that he will be coached by Kalen DeBoer. But we have seen what Pierre can do -- he was the team's top pass rusher last season and should only get better with another year under his belt. In 2025, he had 52 total tackles, 14.5 TFLs and eight sacks along with three forced fumbles. He will be one of the more important contributors to Alabama's success this season, and if he accomplishes what's expected of him, he will likely be rewarded for it."Harry Lyles Jr., ESPN
Alabama has pass-rushing potential off the edges alongside Pierre for 2026. A key point for Wommack this offseason was getting after the QB more. South Carolina's Desmond Umeozulu was a big addition via the Transfer Portal, and a second-year leap is expected for rising sophomore Justin Hill.
Alabama got bigger and stronger on the defensive line, too, with additions like Devan Thompkins (USC) and Terrance Gren (Oregon) potentially making things easier for Pierre and company off the edge.
If Pierre stays healthy, he could lead the country in sacks. If he does, he'll certainly be in consideration for several major awards.
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