“He’s Paw Paw”: Alabama’s final native national champion gets ready for his sixth season

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — By the time most college football players are settling into graduate internships or preparing for life beyond the game, Justin Eboigbe is lacing up his cleats for one more season under the bright lights of Bryant-Denny Stadium.

Known affectionately around the Crimson Tide program as “Paw Paw,” the veteran defensive lineman returns for his sixth year in Tuscaloosa—bringing with him not just a wealth of experience, but a championship pedigree unmatched by anyone else on the roster. He’s the last Alabama player still standing who can claim a national championship ring from the 2020 season, and his presence in the locker room has become part elder statesman, part hype man, and all business.

But beneath the grizzled persona and the enduring nickname lies a story of grit, growth, and deep roots in the culture of Alabama football—a culture he now helps uphold as the program transitions into a new era under head coach Kalen DeBoer.

From Atlanta to the Capstone

Eboigbe arrived in Tuscaloosa in the summer of 2019, a four-star recruit out of Forest Park High School in the football-rich state of Georgia. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 285 pounds, he already had the build of an SEC defensive lineman, but what made him stand out even more was his maturity. His teammates quickly took note of his quiet leadership and his businesslike approach to practice.

By his sophomore season, he was part of the rotation that helped Alabama win the 2020 national title—a dominant, COVID-interrupted campaign that saw the Tide roll through the SEC and handle Ohio State in the title game. That championship, once just a part of a crowded trophy case, now means more than ever.

“I think it hits different now,” Eboigbe said with a grin. “At the time, you just expect it—it’s Alabama. But looking back, not everyone gets to do that. Now, I’m the only one here who knows what that really feels like.”

The Long Road Back

Eboigbe’s career hasn’t been all smooth sailing. After his strong 2020 campaign, he began to battle injuries that would test his resolve. In 2022, a serious neck injury suffered early in the season threatened to end his career altogether. Doctors warned him that playing again might not be worth the risk. Many assumed he’d step away.

But Eboigbe refused to let that be the end of his story.

Through intensive rehab, patience, and a hunger to return, he came back stronger in 2023—registering a career-high 64 tackles and 7 sacks while earning second-team All-SEC honors. He became a key part of one of the conference’s top defenses and helped lead Alabama to another College Football Playoff appearance.

His comeback inspired younger teammates and earned him widespread respect, both inside and outside the program.

“That man’s heart is different,” said linebacker Deontae Lawson. “Most guys don’t come back from that. But Paw Paw? He was in the weight room before any of us. He’s the reason the standard stays the same.”

A New Era, Same Voice

As Alabama transitions from the Nick Saban dynasty to the Kalen DeBoer era, Eboigbe’s role is more important than ever. With Saban’s retirement sending shockwaves through the college football world, many questioned how Alabama would retain its identity. But DeBoer, aware of the program’s traditions and DNA, leaned heavily on veteran leaders like Eboigbe to bridge the gap.

“Justin’s been an anchor,” DeBoer said. “He’s seen it all—championships, adversity, coaching changes. When he speaks, everyone listens.”

Eboigbe embraced the responsibility without hesitation. In team meetings, he often references the old days—not as nostalgia, but as a challenge.

“I tell them, ‘Y’all are writing your chapter now,’” he said. “I’ve seen what greatness looks like. That 2020 team? We were hungry, disciplined, and relentless. If we want to get back to that, it starts with how we work every day.”

His message has resonated. Defensive linemen like Tim Keenan III and Jaheim Oatis now view him not just as a teammate, but as a mentor. Off the field, he’s earned the nickname “Paw Paw” not because of his age, but for his calming presence, his wisdom, and his no-nonsense demeanor.

“He’s like an old soul in a young man’s body,” joked Oatis. “You won’t find anyone more focused or more real than Paw Paw.”

Looking Ahead

As he prepares for his final season, Eboigbe has one goal: to win another national title.

“I didn’t come back just to be here,” he said. “I came back to finish what we started.”

It won’t be easy. The SEC is as loaded as ever. Georgia remains a powerhouse, Texas is on the rise, and Alabama itself is still adjusting to life post-Saban. But with Eboigbe anchoring the defensive front, there’s confidence that the Tide won’t drift far from their usual standard of excellence.

In spring practices, his motor has remained relentless. He’s consistently the first player in drills and the last to leave the field. During scrimmages, he still commands double teams. His technique has sharpened, and his football IQ continues to impress coaches.

NFL scouts have taken notice. While age and injury history may affect his draft stock, many believe Eboigbe has a solid shot at making it to the league—especially with another standout season.

“He’s the type of guy you win with,” said defensive line coach Freddie Roach. “Tough, smart, and dependable. Any NFL team would be lucky to have him.”

A Legacy Already Written

Even if he never plays a down of professional football, Eboigbe’s legacy in Tuscaloosa is secure. He’s one of the last links to the Saban dynasty’s peak. He’s a national champion, a survivor, a mentor, and a leader. He’s Paw Paw.

And in a time when college football is dominated by transfers, NIL deals, and rapid turnover, Eboigbe represents something increasingly rare: a player who stuck it out, weathered the storms, and kept showing up.

“I just believe in loyalty,” he said. “Alabama took a chance on me, and I gave them everything I had. I think that still means something.”

Beyond the Game

Off the field, Eboigbe is finishing a second degree in sports management and has taken on a mentorship role with local youth. He frequently volunteers at Tuscaloosa’s Boys & Girls Club, where kids hang on his every word and run drills with him in the parking lot.

“He doesn’t do it for attention,” said one club director. “He just shows up, plays catch, helps with homework, and tells them to believe in themselves. That’s the kind of impact that lasts longer than football.”

Teammates say Eboigbe has also become something of a “team uncle,” offering life advice, relationship tips, and even Sunday meal prep hacks. He recently joked that he owns more air fryers than game-worn cleats.

But when fall comes, and the lights come on, the jokes stop—and the warrior returns.

The 2025 season will be Eboigbe’s swan song. One more year to chase glory. One more year to leave it all on the field. One more chance to lead the Crimson Tide to the top.

For Alabama fans, he’s more than just a player—he’s a symbol of perseverance, of loyalty, and of what it means to wear the crimson and white with pride.

And for the younger players on the roster, he’s more than just a veteran.

He’s Paw Paw.