Alabama DL feels redshirt sophomore OL has been a ‘big factor’ this spring

Alabama defensive lineman, LT Overton is impressed by the improvement he has seen this spring from redshirt sophomore offensive lineman, Olaus Alinen.

Alinen is preparing for his third football season with the Crimson Tide.

The Finland native provided depth along Alabama’s offensive front and special teams unit over the course of 13 games last season.

Alinen is now stepping up this spring in with snaps at multiple positions. 

“I’ve seen great improvement from him (Alinen),” Overton said in an appearance Monday on “Hey Coach”. “He’s been a big factor so far since them guys been out.”

Alinen has also garnered the attention of Alabama redshirt junior right tackle, Wilkin Formby. Formby recently mentioned that he’s also been impressed with the Finland native’s approach this spring as well.

“I think Olaus (Alinen) has stepped up,” Formby said. “He’s playing in a different position. He’s been playing a lot of tackle that he hasn’t necessarily been comfortable playing, but he’s doing a good job being where the coaches need him.”

Left guard is another position Alinen is competing to get some snaps at. 

“I know they’re like newer guys, but they still played a lot of ball, and they’re both really smart,” Alabama center, Parker Brailsford said earlier in the spring while discussing the battle at left guard. “Even Olaus is, all three of them. They’re all going to be battling for it. So, we’ll just see what happens.”

Alinen looks to be on pace to earn more meaningful snaps in 2025.