A way too early look at Alabama football’s projected offensive depth chart for 2025

A Way-Too-Early Look at Alabama Football’s Projected Offensive Depth Chart for 2025

The Alabama Crimson Tide football program has become synonymous with championship contention under head coach Nick Saban, with each season bringing a new opportunity to reload and challenge for titles. As we look ahead to the 2025 season, Alabama is poised to continue its dominance, although a significant amount of change is expected. Key departures, including Heisman-winning quarterback Bryce Young, make this a pivotal year for the Crimson Tide, with new faces stepping into critical roles on both sides of the ball. One of the areas where these changes will be most visible is on the offensive side, where Alabama will have to rebuild key positions while integrating new talent.

This way-too-early look at Alabama football’s projected offensive depth chart for 2025 aims to identify the players who will likely step into starting roles and key backup spots. With the understanding that many things can change between now and the season opener, we’ll break down each position and project what the Tide’s offense might look like in 2025.

Quarterback: Finding the Next Leader

Arguably the most significant change Alabama will face in 2025 is replacing Bryce Young, the 2021 Heisman Trophy winner and a player who carried the offense in multiple ways during his time in Tuscaloosa. Young’s leadership, poise, and football IQ will be difficult to replicate, but Alabama has a wealth of talent at quarterback to choose from.

Projected Starter: Jalen Milroe (Sophomore)

The likely starting quarterback for Alabama in 2025 is Jalen Milroe, a highly touted recruit who has shown flashes of brilliance in his limited playing time over the past few seasons. Milroe possesses a rare combination of size, speed, and arm strength that makes him an ideal fit for Alabama’s offense, particularly as they look to return to a more balanced approach under new offensive coordinator Dan Mullen. Milroe’s ability to extend plays with his legs while still maintaining a solid passing game is a huge asset for Alabama. Although he has not yet had a full season as the starting quarterback, his potential is undeniable, and with a year of experience under his belt, Milroe is expected to take the reins of the offense.

Backup: Ty Simpson (Freshman)

Behind Milroe, Ty Simpson could emerge as the backup quarterback in 2025. Simpson was one of the top quarterbacks in the Class of 2023 and brings a polished skill set to the table. His accuracy, decision-making, and ability to read defenses make him an ideal candidate to step in should Milroe falter. While Milroe will likely be the primary starter, Simpson will be groomed as the next heir apparent to the position, and the coaching staff will likely want to get him meaningful reps early in the season to continue his development.

Running Back: Rebuilding a Deep and Talented Room

The running back position is another area of change for Alabama in 2025, with the departure of Jahmyr Gibbs leaving a gap at the top of the depth chart. However, the Tide have depth and talent in the backfield, and a committee approach could be utilized to replace the production lost.

Projected Starter: Justice Haynes (Freshman)

The likely starter at running back for the Crimson Tide in 2025 is Justice Haynes, one of the top prospects in the Class of 2026. Haynes, who is expected to join the program in 2025, brings an explosive combination of speed, vision, and power. His ability to make defenders miss and break off long runs makes him a natural fit for Alabama’s high-octane offense. While he may not have the college experience of some of the upperclassmen, his talent is undeniable, and Alabama will look to him as the future of the backfield from day one.

Backup: Jamarion Miller (Sophomore)

Behind Haynes, Jamarion Miller will likely serve as a reliable backup. Miller has shown promise in his early career and brings a physical running style that complements Haynes’s speed and elusiveness. Miller’s ability to gain tough yards between the tackles will be important in short-yardage situations. The combination of Haynes and Miller should give Alabama a strong, balanced rushing attack, which will be critical for maintaining offensive balance in 2025.

Third-String: Roydell Williams (Senior)

Roydell Williams, a seasoned veteran, could play a key role as a depth piece in the running back rotation. Williams has been a reliable contributor for Alabama during his tenure and could serve as a steady hand in critical moments, providing depth and experience when needed. Williams’s ability to contribute in both the run and pass games will make him a valuable asset, especially in certain matchups where a power running game is needed.

Wide Receiver: Reloading for the Passing Game

The wide receiver room at Alabama will see significant turnover in 2025, with key contributors from previous seasons moving on. However, Alabama is known for its ability to recruit high-caliber wide receivers, and the Tide will once again boast a talented group of pass-catchers.

Projected Starters: Jermaine Burton (Senior), Isaiah Bond (Sophomore)

At the top of the depth chart, Jermaine Burton, the former Georgia transfer, is expected to assume the role of the number one receiver. Burton’s speed, route-running, and ability to stretch the field will be crucial for Alabama’s passing game in 2025. He provides a deep threat and should develop chemistry with Jalen Milroe as the season progresses.

Isaiah Bond is another player expected to start at receiver for Alabama in 2025. Bond has flashed big-play potential throughout his early career, and his quickness and ability to separate from defenders will make him a dangerous target in both the short and deep passing game. Bond’s versatility will allow him to line up in multiple spots, which will be key to Alabama’s offensive flexibility.

Backup Receivers: Kobe Prentice (Sophomore), Aaron Anderson (Freshman)

Behind the starting duo, Kobe Prentice will likely provide key depth. Prentice has shown excellent hands and the ability to make plays in the open field. His ability to serve as a reliable possession receiver will be important, especially in third-down situations.

Aaron Anderson, a freshman in 2025, has the potential to contribute immediately. Known for his speed and quickness, Anderson will add another dynamic element to Alabama’s receiving corps. His ability to make plays after the catch could make him a valuable weapon in the Tide’s offense.

Tight End: A Key Component in Mullen’s Offense

The tight end position will be a pivotal part of Alabama’s offense in 2025, especially with the arrival of new offensive coordinator Dan Mullen, who has historically used tight ends effectively in his schemes. Alabama will likely continue to feature the position heavily in both the passing game and as a blocker in the run game.

Projected Starter: Amari Niblack (Junior)

Amari Niblack, a dynamic tight end with excellent size and athleticism, is poised to take over as the starter in 2025. Niblack has the ability to line up in a traditional tight end role or split out wide as a receiver. His versatility will allow Mullen to utilize him in a variety of ways, making him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.

Backup: Danny Lewis (Sophomore)

Danny Lewis, another highly touted recruit, could provide valuable depth at tight end. Although he may not have the same level of athleticism as Niblack, Lewis is a solid all-around player with strong blocking ability and reliable hands. His ability to contribute in both the run and pass games will make him a critical piece of the offense in 2025.

Offensive Line: Anchoring the Offense

The offensive line will be an area of focus for Alabama in 2025, as the team will have to replace several key players from the previous season. Alabama has consistently recruited elite offensive linemen, and in 2025, the Tide will have a mix of experienced players and young talent to fill the gaps.

Projected Starters:

• Left Tackle: JC Latham (Junior)
  Latham has been one of the top offensive linemen in college football, and he will anchor the left tackle spot in 2025. His size, strength, and technique will be key to protecting the quarterback’s blind side and ensuring that Alabama’s offense remains efficient.
• Left Guard: Tyler Booker (Sophomore)
  A rising star, Tyler Booker is expected to lock down the left guard spot in 2025. His athleticism, power, and football IQ will be critical as Alabama looks to maintain a dominant offensive line.
• Center: Seth McLaughlin (Senior)
  The veteran presence of Seth McLaughlin at center will provide stability to the offensive line. McLaughlin’s experience and leadership will help guide the younger players and keep the offensive line functioning smoothly.
• Right Guard: James Brockermeyer (Sophomore)
  James Brockermeyer, another highly rated recruit, is projected to start at right guard in 2025. He has the potential to be a dominant force in the interior, excelling in both run blocking and pass protection.
• Right Tackle: Amari Kight (Junior)
  Amari Kight is expected to step into the right tackle spot, providing Alabama with another powerful presence on the offensive line. His physicality and ability to protect the quarterback will be essential for the team’s offensive success.