Redshirt senior defensive lineman Jah-Marien Latham has been oft-injured throughout his Alabama career, but he suffered by far the scariest injury at practice on Tuesday as Alabama prepares for its Week 5 SEC Opener against Georgia. Latham was hospitalized after suffering a neck injury, according to a statement shared by DeBoer on Tuesday.
On Wednesday, during his SEC midweek teleconference, DeBoer shared a preliminary update on Latham’s status, saying that he would “probably know more in 48 hours.” But that “Most important, he’s got motion, feeling,” DeBoer told reporters. “Just texted with him this morning. He told me to tell the guys he’s doing well.”
Latham has motion and feeling according to Kalen DeBoer
While still uncertain, DeBoer’s update provided a shred of optimism that Latham will make a full recovery. According to the statement released on Tuesday, a return to the field is far from anyone’s mind at this point.
"He is currently undergoing a thorough medical assessment to determine the next steps in his recovery. Our top priority is Jah's health and well-being. We are in close contact with his family and the medical team and will continue to support him in every way possible."
Nick Saban brought Latham to Alabama in 2020 as a four-star recruit. Since that freshman season, Latham has played 823 snaps along the defensive line for the Crimson Tide, registering a career-high 28 tackles in 2024, the first season under Kalen DeBoer and defensive coordinator Kane Wommack.
In Wommack’s defense, Latham primarily rotates with Qua Russaw in the “wolf” position, a hybrid pass-rushing linebacker role. Latham played 17 snaps at edge rusher in Week 1 against Florida State before leaving with a leg injury. He was aiming to make his return to the field in Week 5 against the Bulldogs, along with veteran nose tackle Tim Keenan III and running back Jam Miller, who have both yet to play this season.
With Latham out, Russaw and Yhonzae Pierre will continue to see snaps at the “wolf” spot opposite starting defensive end LT Overton. Alabama’s pass-rush has begun to heat up in recent weeks, with Pierre registering a team-high seven pressures and recording a sack against Wisconsin in Week 3.
"Just got to make sure we build depth not just in that room, but all the spots that Jah-Marien plays," DeBoer reiterated in the press conference. "It's unfortunate, but it's an opportunity for these guys to step up and continue to improve themselves and our football team.”