There is no other way to sugarcoat it, this Sunday has been an absolute downer for Alabama fans everywhere following news that the Crimson Tide had officially lost out on Hollywood Smothers to the Texas Longhorns. This unexpected turn of events for Alabama comes after many were already beginning to become comfortable with the idea of featuring the North Carolina State transfer running back on offense this fall in Tuscaloosa.
Smothers' loss now leaves Kalen BeBoer and the Crimson Tide rushing attack left wondering what's next at the position, especially coming off the program's worst statistical season running the football since 1946. Many suspect this may force DeBoer to turn to the future and lean on the services of 2026 5-star signee Ezavier 'EJ' Crowell.
EJ Crowell could be the cure for Alabama's ailing run game
Crowell is a highly regarded prospect from Jackson High School in Jackson, AL, where he led the entire state in rushing with 2,628 yards and 35 touchdowns on 209 carries last season. That production gives Alabama fans something to believe in moving forward, but the question now is, how much pressure will the 5-foot-11, 205-pound true freshman be under to contribute in the early stages of his career?
Of course, this wouldn't be the first time Alabama fans went into a season with high hopes of getting production out of a unproven commodity at the tailback position, after watching freshman standouts like T.J Yeldon, Josh Jacobs, Najee Harris, Brian Robinson, and others do so, but can the same be said for Crowell with the Tide currently rebuilding upfront on the offensive line? Make no mistake, Crowell is talented, but that'll be the question for many as all off season.
As for DeBoer and Alabama football GM Courtney Morgan, it'll be interesting to see if they give Crowell that chance as a true freshman in 2026, if the Tide fail to add another runner at the position.
Alabama desperately needs a difference-maker up front. Crowell looks the part, and the Crimson Tide may not have the luxury to wait for his development.