Which Alabama football positions have the most to prove in 2025?

The 2025 Alabama Crimson Tide enters a new era, reshaped by a shifting college football landscape, NIL realities, and the transfer portal frenzy. Yet, despite these changes, expectations remain sky-high. As Alabama looks to reassert itself in the national title picture under head coach Kalen DeBoer, certain position groups face added scrutiny and pressure. Whether due to inexperience, key departures, or underperformance in 2024, these units have the most to prove heading into the new season.

Here’s a breakdown of the Alabama football positions under the microscope in 2025:

1. Quarterback – The Leadership Void and High Expectations

Why it matters: With Jalen Milroe declaring for the NFL Draft after a rollercoaster but ultimately successful 2024 campaign, Alabama must replace a dynamic playmaker who often bailed the Tide out with his legs and deep-ball arm.

Who’s in the mix: The battle for QB1 will likely come down to Julian Sayin, the former five-star California prodigy who redshirted in 2024, and Dylan Lonergan, a strong-armed and cerebral passer who backed up Milroe. Sayin enters as the favorite due to his recruiting pedigree, elite mechanics, and football IQ.

What’s at stake: Alabama fans have been spoiled by the likes of Tua Tagovailoa, Bryce Young, and Jalen Hurts. Sayin or Lonergan must not only keep the offense humming but also lead in high-pressure SEC matchups. A slow start here could cost Alabama a playoff berth in a 12-team format.

2. Offensive Line – Rebuilding the Trenches

Why it matters: Alabama’s 2024 offensive line was serviceable but lacked the mauling identity of past units. The Tide struggled to impose their will in key short-yardage moments, something that must change in 2025.

Key departures: Left tackle Kadyn Proctor, after initially transferring out and returning, declared for the NFL, while center Seth McLaughlin transferred out mid-season last year.

Who’s stepping up: Former five-star tackles Wilkin Formby and Elijah Pritchett are expected to lock down the edges. Redshirt freshman RyQueze McElderry and Georgia transfer Dylan Fairchild will compete for interior spots. Can this group gel in time?

What’s at stake: DeBoer’s system emphasizes balance and tempo. If the offensive line fails to protect the new quarterback or create consistent run lanes, Alabama’s offense could sputter early. This group needs to prove it’s not the weak link.

3. Wide Receivers – Stars Must Emerge

Why it matters: Alabama used to churn out Biletnikoff finalists. In recent years, however, the wide receiver group has lacked a clear alpha. In 2024, drops, poor separation, and inconsistent route running plagued the unit.

Who’s back: Isaiah Bond transferred to Texas after the 2024 season. Kobe Prentice returns, and highly-touted sophomores Jalen Hale and Malik Benson need to show they can handle WR1 duties.

New faces to watch: Freshman phenom Ryan Williams, who reclassified from 2025 to 2024, enters with high expectations and electric speed. The buzz from spring camp suggests he could be a game-changer.

What’s at stake: In DeBoer’s offense, wideouts must consistently win one-on-one matchups. This unit needs to bounce back and provide explosive plays downfield. Otherwise, opposing defenses will key in on the run game.

4. Inside Linebackers – From Solid to Special?

Why it matters: In 2024, the inside linebacker corps led by Deontae Lawson and Jihaad Campbell was solid but not spectacular. In an era where SEC offenses stretch the field and attack every blade of grass, linebackers need to be both sideline-to-sideline tacklers and savvy in coverage.

Departures and depth concerns: Lawson left for the NFL, and Campbell’s health has been inconsistent. Trezmen Marshall graduated. That leaves gaps in both leadership and playmaking.

Who’s next: Sophomore Justin Jefferson (the JUCO transfer) and redshirt freshman Qua Russaw are expected to take on bigger roles. Jefferson, in particular, must show he can anchor the defense and communicate pre-snap.

What’s at stake: With uncertainty up front and in the secondary, Alabama’s linebackers must provide a stabilizing presence. If they don’t rise to the occasion, opponents will exploit the middle of the field with tight ends and slot receivers.

5. Defensive Line – The Run Defense Must Improve

Why it matters: Alabama’s run defense was inconsistent in 2024. Against top opponents like Georgia and Michigan, the defensive line struggled to get penetration or set the edge, allowing chunk plays that flipped field position and wore down the defense.

Big shoes to fill: Justin Eboigbe and Tim Smith both declared for the NFL Draft, leaving behind a leadership and experience void.

Who’s stepping in: Five-star James Smith, along with Damon Payne and Jah-Marien Latham, need to elevate their games. The arrival of blue-chip freshman Zayden Walker could also make an impact.

What’s at stake: If Alabama’s defensive front can’t clog running lanes or generate interior pressure, it places more strain on a retooling linebacker and secondary corps. Alabama cannot afford to lose the line-of-scrimmage battle in 2025.

6. Cornerbacks – Time to Reclaim DBU Status

Why it matters: Alabama has a proud tradition in the secondary, but last season saw too many busted coverages and missed tackles. While the talent was there, the execution was not.

Key losses: Kool-Aid McKinstry and Terrion Arnold both entered the NFL Draft, taking with them years of experience and swagger.

Who’s returning: Earl Little II and Jahlil Hurley are names to watch, but neither has proven they can handle WR1s in man coverage consistently. Antonio Kite and Dezz Ricks also return but need to make the sophomore leap.

New hope: Five-star freshman Zabien Brown could see early action. The question is, can a young corner step up and make the plays that McKinstry and Arnold did?

What’s at stake: In the pass-happy SEC, subpar cornerback play can sink a defense. For Alabama to contend, its corners must go from unproven to elite — and quickly.

7. Special Teams – The Forgotten Factor

Why it matters: Games are won and lost on hidden yardage. In 2024, Alabama’s special teams were shaky — with inconsistent punting and a few costly missed field goals. Punt return production was virtually nonexistent.

Who’s on notice: Kicker Will Reichard graduated after a storied career, and James Burnip also moved on. Both punting and placekicking duties are open for competition. Sophomore Conor Talty is expected to handle placekicking, but spring reports have been mixed.

Why it’s critical: With a new quarterback and untested corners, field position will be more important than ever. Alabama must find reliable legs or risk giving away key advantages.

        Alabama’s standard is championships. Anything less is considered a failure in Tuscaloosa. Yet, with a new head coach, a new quarterback, and major changes across both sides of the ball, 2025 feels more like a transition year than most.

But that doesn’t mean the Tide can’t win it all. It simply means the margin for error is smaller, and the pressure is higher on certain units.

• The quarterback must grow up fast.

• The offensive line must become nasty again.

• The receivers must find their rhythm.

• The linebackers must lead.

• The corners must shut down elite playmakers.

• And the special teams can’t afford to be an afterthought.

If these positions rise to the occasion, Alabama will once again be at the center of the playoff conversation in December. If they falter, 2025 could be remembered as a rebuilding year rather than a revenge tour.

Either way, the pressure is on — and the Crimson Tide’s response will define the next chapter of the dynasty.