On defense, Deontae Lawson lost to injury again would probably be the most damaging loss the Crimson Tide could face. However, Lawson has confidence in Colorado transfer Nikhai Hill-Green. Green has considerable experience. Last season, Hill-Green had 82 tackles, two interceptions, and four passes defended. He has 206 tackles in his four-season college career, which began at Michigan. Deontae Lawson says of Hill-Green, "He brings that older, old-head mentality to our linebacker room He brings that older, old-head mentality to our linebacker room."
On the defensive line, as a player and a leader, losing Tim Keenan III to injury would be close to a loss of Lawson. Keenan and James Smith need big seasons for Kane Wommack's defense to thrive. Alabama has good depth at the position, but depth is often not enough on the d-line. Steve Mboumoua and Edric Hill can likely fill in well if Smith is injured. Redshirt freshman Jeremiah Beaman would face the tough task of replacing Keenan. Beaman is up to 314 pounds and could be physically ready to fill a starter role. The Crimson Tide is so deep at the Bandit position, Keon Keely and Jordan Renaud are expected to rotate as interior linemen as well.
Lastly, if placekicker Conor Talty is injured, his replacement would be little known to many Alabama fans. Which one of several possibilities it would be is unknown. It might even be a pair of kickers, with one handling point-after and shorter field goals.
Note: Player information and stats provided by Sports Reference