Overview
- Head coach Kalen DeBoer called keeping Mack and Russell “huge,” citing carryover in the offense as Alabama replaces departed leaders on the line.
- Spring practices will feature a two-man competition: Mack, who finished the Rose Bowl after Simpson’s rib injury, and Russell, a former five-star with limited game reps.
- Only guard Michael Carroll returns as a starting offensive lineman, with five 2026 signees and six portal additions brought in to rebuild the unit.
- The defensive front saw heavy turnover with exits that included Tim Keenan III and LT Overton, plus portal departures such as James Smith, Qua Russaw, Jordan Renaud and Keon Keeley.
- DeBoer and coordinator Kane Wommack praised a bigger, longer, more athletic pass-rush group that adds transfers Devan Thompkins, Terrance Green, Desmond Umeozulu and others, while noting the unit remains unproven as a whole before the Sept. 5 opener vs. East Carolina.