Somehow, not a single Alabama defensive back was among the 35 players named to the Thorpe Award preseason watchlist. That's okay, as it will only serve as further motivation for the unit as a whole. And the guys who go against them in practice everyday, well, they know exactly just how deep and talented the Crimson Tide is on the back-end.
Just ask senior WR Germie Bernard.
"I honestly think we have the best defensive back room in the country," Bernard said after Thursday's practice. "So going up against the best every single day, you have to find new ways to get open, new schemes. I mean, it's been great."
Bernard singled out two Alabama cornerbacks while discussing the secondary. First was senior Domani Jackson, who might be the most underrated player in the country. The USC transfer was outstanding for the Crimson Tide last year and has the size, speed, and skill to be an NFL starter at the position.
But Bernard also shouted out a true freshman, one who has consistently drawn rave reviews since he arrived on campus.
"He's very lengthy, has long arms, so he can reach you, touch you at the line," Bernard said about star freshman Dijon Lee. "I think he's going to be really great. He's continuing to improve, and I think he's going to play a lot for our defense and he's going to make a lot of plays."
Iron is sharpening iron in Fall Camp for Alabama
Alabama is elite at both WR and DB, which will only serve to make both position groups stronger heading into the season.
At WR, Bernard is joined by returning starter Ryan Williams. The Tide also added Isaiah Horton in the Transfer Portal, giving them a starting trio that stacks up against anyone in the country. The depth down the line is strong, too, including rising sophomore Rico Scott, who has already received praise from both Bernard and OC Ryan Grubb through two days of camp.
Alabama's depth is even more impressive in the defensive backfield. Along with Jackson, Alabama returned starter Zabien Brown, who was terrific as a freshman and should take another leap as a sophomore. Behind them is the 5-star Lee, along with Utah transfer Cam Calhoun, giving Kane Wommack an embarrassment of riches at cornerback. It is arguably the best quartet in college football.
Alabama returns two veterans at safety with Bray Hubbard and Keon Sabb, and has plenty of depth there, too. Sophomores Zay Mincey and Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. are itching to get on the field.
Despite all of that talent, the group is still somehow flying under the radar. That's fine. Alabama's secondary doesn't need preseason validation. When the lights turn on, they'll show the world they're the best in the country.