Alabama Football: The highs & lows of the class of 2021

Alabama Football: One more year?

In addition to these projected draft picks, Bama has some valuable contributors set to return for year four. Starting quarterback Jalen Milroe will open the 2024 campaign as a Heisman favorite. Offensive guard Jaeden Roberts and tight end Robbie Ouzts will once again be key cogs in the offense, and in the running game in particular.

Inside linebacker Deontae Lawson and nose guard Tim Keenan III will return as stalwarts and leaders in the middle of the Alabama defense. Several, if not all, of these players will likely be drafted in 2025.

Alabama Football: Still loading

There are a handful of commits from the class of 2021 that have stuck around despite not yet cementing a starting role. All could be critical players next fall. Defensive lineman Damon Payne has been a valuable rotational piece, while James Brockermeyer will have a chance to assume the starting center spot. 

Edge rusher Keanu Koht and safety Devonta Smith will also have opportunities to become starters. Linebacker Kendrick Blackshire may have a hard time cracking the lineup with Deontae Lawson and Jihaad Campbell back, but he is a veteran reserve and a special teams ace.