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Former 4-star crafting his case to be Alabama’s starting RB

Originally posted on Touchdown Alabama Magazine
By Stephen M. Smith | Last updated Apr 5, 2026 2:24 PM ET

EJ Crowell, a five-star freshman, is limited in Alabama’s spring practice at running back with an injury.

Kalen DeBoer is being careful with him, but we are seeing true competition brewing at the position. Trae’shawn Brown has emerged as a name that’s turning heads in practice; however, a former four-star is crafting his case to be the starting running back in the fall.

Kevin Riley, a Tuscaloosa (Ala.) native, was originally committed to the University of Miami (Fla.) in the 2024 signing class.

Image | Source: Touchdown Alabama

3/24/26 MFB Spring practice
Alabama Running Back Kevin Riley (6)
Photo by Kent Gidley

He decided to flip to the Crimson Tide late in the cycle as a product of Tuscaloosa County High School.

Riley saw action in two games as a true freshman, but he earned an expanded role last season. He played 11 games – including two starts – tallying 59 carries for 224 yards and two touchdowns. Riley also caught 19 passes for 176 receiving yards and a score. The 5-foot-11, 198-pounder showcased a burst in the running and passing game that intrigued DeBoer and Ryan Grubb.

Both have stated the third-year back has added another gear.

He does not have the size of Daniel Hill, nevertheless, Riley possesses the ability to get small and power his way between the tackles. He had moments where he looked like the best back on Alabama’s roster, until an injury against Eastern Illinois sidelined him for a while. Riley is having a very good spring and DeBoer highlighted him after scrimmage No. 2.

“Kevin Riley shows good burst when he accelerates,” DeBoer said. “He’s got a good knack in between slithering through and finding those holes.”

Riley has had some good runs in both scrimmages.

The A-Day game will give him an opportunity to show fans more of what he has.

This article first appeared on Touchdown Alabama Magazine and was syndicated with permission.

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