As Alabama gears up for the 2025 season, head coach Kalen DeBoer views the Crimson Tide’s linebacker unit as a surprising strength — and not for the reasons originally expected.
DeBoer’s confidence is fueled by the unexpected return of veterans Deontae Lawson and Justin Jefferson, both of whom had standout performances in 2024. Together, they tallied 146 total tackles, 13 tackles for loss, four sacks, five pass breakups, and two forced fumbles.
Rather than relying on a younger, less experienced group, Alabama now has the luxury of leaning on two seasoned leaders in the middle of its defense.
“I wouldn’t necessarily call it a surprise, but we didn’t anticipate having Deontae Lawson back,” DeBoer told CBS Sports’ Josh Pate. “He had an injury, but now he’s returned and has brought leadership to that spot.
And with Justin Jefferson returning through the junior college eligibility rules, it gave us another experienced player we didn’t expect. What was shaping up to be a youthful group has become a core strength for us. How can you not love that?”
With Lawson and Jefferson back, Alabama’s linebacker corps is now viewed as a major asset heading into 2025.
