Greg McElroy Issues Firm Stance on Alabama's Future

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nazario Pangallo | Last updated Feb 12, 2025 12:28 PM ET

Alabama head football coach Kalen DeBoer didn't watch his program flourish in year one as the Crimson Tide stumbled to a measly 9-4, which ended the program's run of 10+ win seasons that began in 2008. Although Alabama didn't go rampant in the transfer portal following the season, the Crimson Tide's quiet off-season might have DeBoer's program ripe for a return to glory in 2025.

"Alabama, with the continuity returning defensively, should be really well-poised to have a bounce-back year," former Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy said.

Besides safety Malachi Moore, who ran out of eligibility, and Jihaad Campbell, who is a projected first-round draft pick, the Crimson Tide returned nearly every starter on defense. Linebacker Deontae Lawson, cornerback Domani Jackson, and defensive lineman Tim Keenan III, LT Overton, and Jah-Marien Latham chose another college football season over the NFL draft.

The Crimson Tide replaced the loss of Campbell with former Colorado Buffalos Nikhai Hill-Green, who compiled 82 tackles, two sacks, and two interceptions.

On the offensive side, three starters departed for the NFL, with quarterback Jalen Milroe, guard Tyler Booker forego their senior season and tight ends Robbie Ouzts and C.J. Dipree running out of eligibility. Running back Justice Haynes and tackle Elijah Pritchett entered the transfer portal, while multiple backups cut into the depth of the offense.

Wide receivers Germie Bernard and Ryan Williams return while the Tide added former Miami Hurricane Isaiah Horton through the transfer portal. Three starting offensive linemen, Kadyn Proctor, Parker Brailsford, and Jaeden Roberts, will be back, along with running back Jam Miller.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: