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Kalen DeBoer's statement on Deontae Lawson's leadership should prove those doubting Alabama's culture wrong

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Rob Gregson | Last updated Jul 16, 2025 5:38 PM ET

After a 2024 season that saw the Alabama Crimson Tide underperform in multiple areas, there was one that stood out the most.

That would be their culture and discipline, something many of which have doubted under the direction of Kalen DeBoer.

But when you hear what DeBoer said about his star linebacker, it will let you know how strong the culture remains for the Crimson.

Kalen DeBoer shares a story on Deontae Lawson's leadership

"Man, it’s just amazing seeing him [Deontae Lawson] take over not just the defense, but be a leader on our football team," said DeBoer on Wednesday via On3. "I walked into a meeting, looking for a coach. I walked in. It was him holding a meeting with the linebackers, I guess, yesterday morning. Listened for about 30 seconds. I knew that meeting was in a good position. Coaching it like a coach. When you have guys on the field that are like him, that understand the depth, the details, you know you’re headed in the right direction and have a chance."

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Players don't do those sorts of things unless they have a firm ground to stand on. A culture that evokes participation from everyone in leadership roles, but more importantly, asks the top of the depth chart to go one step further.

Lawson didn't have to come back. Sure, the injury would have hurt his draft stock, but he would have still been drafted in what was a light 2025 NFL Draft at inside linebacker. Instead, he came back. And he did so to make sure that the Alabama standard, when it comes to winning, is back where it belongs.

Because, as we all can see, the culture is doing just fine in Tuscaloosa.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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