As Alabama Crimson Tide’s spring practice begins, injuries are raising concerns, especially with key players sidelined for recovery.

As spring practice officially begins for the Alabama Crimson Tide, the program is again entering one of its most critical development phases of the year. Spring football serves as a time for team coaches to evaluate their roster, experiment with different lineups, and integrate new recruits into the system. However, the tone of the 2025 spring session is slightly different from usual. Alabama, which has long prided itself on being one of the most physically imposing teams in college football, is beginning spring practice with several key players sidelined due to injuries. This raises the question: are injuries a major concern for the Crimson Tide heading into the new season?

Injuries are an inevitable part of football, and the grueling nature of spring practice often puts players at risk for minor setbacks. However, with high-profile players on both sides of the ball dealing with issues, the impact on Alabama’s roster could have long-lasting effects as the team prepares for the 2025 season. Although it’s still early, the injury bug presents some serious challenges for head coach Nick Saban and his staff, especially as they look to replace critical contributors from the previous season.

Key Injuries: Who’s Missing?

The most immediate concern for Alabama as they begin spring practice is the absence of key players who were expected to play central roles in the upcoming season. These players are not only significant contributors to Alabama’s success but also individuals who bring leadership, experience, and game-changing talent to the field. Here’s a breakdown of the key players who are dealing with injuries and are either sidelined or limited in spring drills:

1. Will Anderson Jr. (Edge Rusher)

Although Will Anderson Jr. is no longer part of the Alabama program, having declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, his loss looms large for the Crimson Tide. The edge rusher, who was one of the best defensive players in college football over the past few years, was a key figure in Alabama’s pass rush. His departure has left a void that the Tide need to fill, and his absence means the team will need to develop younger talent in this position.

However, Anderson’s absence due to an injury at the end of his time at Alabama could be seen as a precursor to challenges in developing a new edge-rusher identity. For now, his presence as a highly visible absence, while not directly affecting the spring practice, raises the need for new players to step into significant roles.

2. Jaylen Moody (Inside Linebacker)

A senior leader on defense, Jaylen Moody had been expected to anchor Alabama’s linebacker group for 2025. Known for his ability to stop the run and be an exceptional tackler, Moody’s leadership in the middle of the defense has been invaluable. Unfortunately, he is recovering from an offseason injury that will keep him out of spring practice, forcing Alabama to look at younger players to fill the gap in the linebacker unit.

Moody’s absence not only impacts the team’s defensive leadership but also creates a challenge in terms of experience. Without Moody, Alabama will need someone to step up as the team’s leader at linebacker and show the same level of instinct and awareness that Moody brought to the field. This will be a key area to watch throughout spring practice.

3. Malachi Moore (Safety)

Alabama’s secondary was a strength for the team last season, and Malachi Moore played an instrumental role in that success. Moore, a talented safety who is versatile and instinctive, was expected to be a central figure in the Tide’s defensive backfield. However, Moore is recovering from an offseason injury that will prevent him from participating in spring drills. The safety position is vital for Alabama, especially with the high-powered offenses they face within the SEC.

With Moore out of action for the spring, it gives younger defensive backs the opportunity to get valuable reps, but it also presents a challenge in terms of leadership in the secondary. Players like Kool-Aid McKinstry and Terrion Arnold will be tasked with stepping up and leading the defensive backfield during this crucial period.

4. Eli Ricks (Cornerback)

Eli Ricks, who transferred to Alabama from LSU, was expected to be one of the key cornerbacks for the Crimson Tide in 2025. However, Ricks is recovering from a recent injury that will keep him out of spring practices. Ricks is a highly talented cornerback with the ability to lock down receivers, and his absence is particularly concerning as Alabama will need depth and experience in their secondary.

With Ricks sidelined, younger cornerbacks like Earl Little Jr. and Terrion Arnold will need to prove themselves during the spring, making this an important period for Alabama’s defense.

5. Offensive Line Depth

While not directly a result of an injury to a singular star player, Alabama is also facing questions along their offensive line. The Tide has to replace several key contributors from last season, and depth on the offensive line has been a persistent concern. Injuries here—whether they’re lingering issues from the previous season or new developments—are a major cause for concern as the offensive line is key to both the run and pass game.

The offensive line will be tasked with developing a strong and cohesive unit as they work to protect quarterback Jalen Milroe and open up running lanes for Alabama’s dynamic running back committee. The spring period is critical to getting the offensive line on track for the 2025 season.

What Does This Mean for Alabama’s Spring Practice?

With several critical players out of commission, Alabama will enter spring practice with some notable holes to fill, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. In many ways, spring football becomes a testing ground for the players who will be expected to step into those voids and make their mark. Here’s how these absences may affect Alabama’s approach to spring practice and the overall team development:

1. Increased Focus on Developing Young Talent

With several starters out, Alabama’s coaching staff will likely give significant reps to younger players in positions of need. Spring practice offers a great opportunity for underclassmen to showcase their abilities and earn starting roles for the fall. Whether it’s linebackers like Deontae Lawson or Jihaad Campbell, or defensive backs like Arnold and Little, spring ball is their time to prove they can handle the pressure and contribute when the season begins.

For the offensive line, players like Caden Proctor and others in the rotation will need to step up and take charge in practices, as Alabama needs to find chemistry and cohesion up front to help guide the offense through the SEC.

2. Leadership Opportunities for Veterans

While it’s a time for youth to shine, spring practice also offers a chance for Alabama’s remaining veterans to assume more leadership roles. Players like Dallas Turner, McKinstry, and Jalen Milroe will have to step up to fill the leadership void left by the injured players. These veterans need to not only perform on the field but also serve as mentors to younger players, ensuring that Alabama’s culture of excellence remains intact.

Turner, in particular, will need to shoulder a significant part of the pass-rush burden in the absence of Anderson. His ability to take charge of the defensive front will be critical in ensuring Alabama maintains its strong defensive identity.

3. Testing Depth and Flexibility

Alabama has always prided itself on having depth across all positions, which is why spring football is such a valuable time to test that depth. With key players sidelined, Alabama will have to adjust their approach to both offense and defense, finding creative ways to manage the roster. The success or failure of this period will depend on how well Alabama’s backups and younger players can adjust to the increased workload and pressure.

For example, with multiple injuries in the secondary, players like Arnold and Little may see more time at cornerback, allowing the coaching staff to evaluate their ability to step up. Likewise, the linebacker group, which lacks Moody’s leadership, will have to find stability through a combination of youth and experience.