Kalen DeBoer names player to replace pass-rush production from Jihaad Campbell

Kalen DeBoer is expecting a chunk of Alabama football’s defensive pass-rush production in 2025 to come from LT Overton.

This expectation comes after the Alabama defense lost its most productive defender from the 2024 season, Jihaad Campbell, to the Philadelphia Eagles. DeBoer and company are now looking for Overton to take the next step as a player this season to help offset the loss.

The 6-foot-5, 275-pounder racked up 42 total tackles, including three tackles for loss, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, one pass break up, and two sacks in 2024 but left a lot to be desired as the Tide defense with nine quarterback hurries. Because of this, DeBoer believes Overton has the potential to feast upfront for the Crimson Tide defense this fall.

The second-year Alabama head coach made this apparent Wednesday in Atlanta when speaking to reporters at SEC Media Days when asked where Alabama will look to replace Campbell’s production.

“I think guys like LT Overton jump out to me,” DeBoer said. “LT was there a lot last year. Those are the next steps you want to take. Not just he, but a lot of guys finishing the plays. LT has it in him, the skillset. He has those instincts. Continues to hone in on taking it to the next level.”

Overton is now in a prime position to capitalize for Alabama on the defensive side of the ball if he can fully take the next step in his game in 2025.