Alabama Football: Offensive line updates following Saturday scrimmage

There were a lot of positive returns coming out of Alabama’s spring scrimmage on Saturday afternoon, but the biggest piece of news was somewhat concerning. 

Returning starter and standout guard Jaeden Roberts was knocked out of the scrimmage, appearing to suffer a lower body injury. 

Coach Kalen DeBoer provided a reassuring update on Roberts’ status, saying “Jaeden’s gonna be fine” and that early reports indicate “nothing major.” It seems as though Jaeden Roberts may miss a portion of spring practice, but I don’t expect his status for the fall to be impacted. 

DeBoer also gave a promising update on center Parker Brailsford. Brailsford was one of the best centers in the country at Washington last year before coming to Tuscaloosa along with Coach DeBoer. He was one of Bama's most celebrated transfer additions, and was expected to immediately compete for the starting spot at one of the most important positions on the roster.

Those thoughts had shifted in recent weeks, with multiple reports coming out that Brailsford had been absent from spring practice. These reports fueled speculation that he might be planning to transfer from Alabama without ever playing a game. 

However, DeBoer said that he is just “going through some non-football related things” and that “he’s gonna be with us.” Most coaches would have left it at that, but Bama’s head coach went on to clarify even further: “He should be ready to go here sooner than later…he’s gonna be here with us, it’s not a transfer thing, it’s nothing like that. Just wanna make sure I’m clear.”

In the transfer portal era, it’s tough to ever be certain what a player is thinking or what their intentions are. Still, DeBoer said about as plainly as he could that Brailsford will play for Alabama this year, and I see no reason not to take him at his word.

Regardless of how the lineup shakes out, the interior offensive line should be an overwhelming strength for Alabama Football this season.