Deontae Lawson was expected to leave Tuscaloosa after last season, but a season-ending injury in Alabama’s loss to Oklahoma prompted him to return for a fifth year with the Crimson Tide.
Lawson, a team captain in 2024 and one of college football’s top returning defenders, has faced questions about his availability due to the injury. He missed all of spring practice, and there’s still no clear timeline for his return to full football activity.
However, defensive coordinator Kane Wommack offered an encouraging update during an interview with WNSP 105.5, saying:
“He’s ahead of schedule compared to where most guys are at this point in rehab. We’re excited to see him progress through the summer and hopefully get fully ready for fall camp.”
This marks the first substantial update on Lawson’s recovery, and it suggests that he could be back in action for the start of fall camp—great news for Alabama fans and coaches alike.
Even though Alabama has solid depth at linebacker, Lawson remains one of the most crucial pieces on defense. Despite missing the final two games of the season, he still ranked second on the team in tackles, just behind Jihaad Campbell. More than his stats, Lawson brings leadership and experience that this young but talented defense will lean on.
The Tide’s linebacker corps got a boost this offseason with the return of top reserve Justin Jefferson—thanks to an extra year of JUCO eligibility—and the addition of Colorado transfer Nikhai Hill-Green, a second-team All-Big 12 selection.
If Lawson isn’t fully ready early in the season, Alabama has the depth to weather the storm. But to maximize the defense’s potential—which has the makings of being the best in the nation—Lawson’s presence, leadership, and play-calling in the middle will be vital.
