Jah-Marien Latham talks about his adjustment to the Wolf linebacker position for Alabama football, emphasizing his preparedness for the task at hand.

Alabama football has long been a powerhouse program, known for its dominant defense and well-coached athletes who consistently rise to meet the toughest challenges. One of the players who embodies this defensive excellence is Jah-Marien Latham, a rising star who has made a significant transition within the Alabama defense. In 2025, Latham is set to take on a new and crucial role as the Wolf linebacker—a position that combines versatility, athleticism, and defensive intelligence. His journey to this new position is one marked by preparation, dedication, and a desire to make an immediate impact on one of college football’s most elite programs.

Latham’s transition to the Wolf linebacker role represents more than just a change in position; it’s an evolution of his skill set and his understanding of the game. The Wolf linebacker in Alabama’s defense is a hybrid role, a position that requires both pass-rushing and coverage abilities, making it one of the most dynamic spots on the field. The position demands versatility, quick decision-making, and the ability to excel in a variety of situations—from defending against the run to rushing the quarterback and covering pass-catching targets in space. This adjustment is not an easy one, but it’s a challenge that Latham is eager to take on.

In an exclusive interview, Latham opened up about his transition to the Wolf linebacker position, what it means for his development, and how he’s preparing to make a significant impact on Alabama’s defense in the 2025 season. His journey, which started at a young age, has been one of steady growth, and this transition to a new position only adds another layer of excitement to his already promising career.

The Road to Alabama: A Star in the Making

Latham’s journey to Alabama was one marked by consistent growth and high expectations. A native of Louisiana, Latham was a standout player in high school, known for his size, athleticism, and leadership on the field. His skills were evident from the moment he stepped on the field, and it wasn’t long before major programs, including Alabama, took notice of his potential.

Recruited as a linebacker, Latham was initially brought into Alabama’s program with the expectation that he could develop into an elite defensive talent. During his early years with the Crimson Tide, Latham made significant strides in his development, showcasing his natural ability to read offenses, react quickly, and make tackles in a variety of situations. Whether it was stopping the run or rushing the quarterback, Latham’s raw talent was undeniable.

Despite his natural gifts, Latham’s time at Alabama wasn’t just about physical ability; it was about learning the intricacies of the game. Under the tutelage of Alabama’s coaching staff, particularly its defensive coordinator, Latham began to refine his technique and improve his understanding of defensive schemes. He grew into a player who could take on multiple roles within the defense, a skill set that would later prove to be essential when it came time for him to make the transition to the Wolf linebacker position.

The Wolf Linebacker: A Unique Challenge

The Wolf linebacker position is one of the most intriguing and important roles within Alabama’s defensive scheme. A hybrid linebacker/defensive end position, the Wolf linebacker requires a player to have the ability to rush the quarterback, stop the run, and cover in space. It’s a role that demands both strength and agility, as well as the mental acuity to read plays and make quick adjustments.

For Latham, adjusting to the Wolf linebacker position has required a shift in his approach. The position is a hybrid, so Latham has had to adapt to playing both as a traditional linebacker and as a pass-rusher. He will need to use his speed and explosiveness to get after quarterbacks, while also displaying the strength and tenacity required to stop powerful running backs. Additionally, he will be asked to cover tight ends, running backs, and occasionally wide receivers in pass coverage, which requires a different skill set than his traditional linebacker responsibilities.

To prepare for this challenge, Latham has spent countless hours working on his pass-rushing technique, refining his hand placement and learning how to read offensive linemen’s movements. He has also been focused on improving his coverage skills, particularly in one-on-one situations against elusive running backs and fast tight ends. This dual responsibility makes the Wolf linebacker position one of the most demanding spots on the field, but it’s a challenge that Latham is embracing head-on.

Latham’s Adjustment: A Focus on Versatility

In his adjustment to the Wolf linebacker role, Latham has focused on becoming a more well-rounded player. His natural athleticism and size already make him a formidable player, but transitioning to the Wolf position requires him to constantly expand his skill set and make adjustments on the fly. This means developing a more varied approach to his training, one that includes speed drills, strength-building exercises, and specific skills designed to enhance his ability to rush the passer and cover in space.

Latham’s work ethic has been a key factor in his successful transition. The Alabama coaching staff, including defensive coordinator Kevin Steele, has emphasized the importance of mastering the fundamentals while also developing the versatility needed to thrive in the Wolf role. Latham has worked closely with the coaching staff, focusing on the intricacies of pass-rush techniques, like using a variety of moves to evade offensive linemen, and how to handle blocking schemes when attacking the quarterback.

At the same time, Latham has also put a significant emphasis on developing his mental game. The Wolf linebacker position requires a great deal of decision-making on the fly, as the player must quickly assess whether to rush the quarterback, cover a running back in space, or step up to stop the run. This mental flexibility has been a focal point of Latham’s preparation, as he continues to refine his ability to read offenses and react accordingly.

One of the most interesting aspects of the Wolf linebacker position is the amount of freedom it gives a player to use his instincts. The position demands players who can think on their feet and make quick decisions in a high-pressure environment. Latham, who has always had a knack for reading plays and anticipating movements, is eager to take full advantage of the creative freedom the Wolf position offers.

Preparing for the Big Stage: Spring Practices and Fall Camp

As the 2025 season approaches, Latham’s preparation for his new role intensifies. Spring practices and fall camp are critical periods in the development of any player, and they are especially crucial for Latham as he continues to adjust to the Wolf linebacker position. These practices are where the transition becomes real—where Latham will face some of the best offensive linemen and playmakers in the country. During these sessions, he will be able to test his new skills and refine his understanding of the position.

In the spring, Latham has been focusing on mastering the physical aspects of his game. The coaches have worked with him on his hand techniques and how to beat offensive linemen to the edge. Additionally, Latham has been practicing his ability to maintain balance and control when rushing the passer. The Alabama defensive coaching staff has also placed an emphasis on improving his ability to disengage from blockers quickly, which is essential for him to maintain his pass-rush effectiveness.

On the coverage side, Latham has spent hours in the film room studying opposing offenses and learning how to better recognize route concepts and timing. He’s worked with Alabama’s secondary coaches on how to drop into coverage, track the ball, and mirror the movements of offensive players in open space. In today’s college football landscape, the Wolf linebacker often plays in space, and this requires a unique set of skills. Latham has been eager to learn and improve in this area, as he understands that becoming a proficient coverage linebacker will be a major asset to Alabama’s defense.

A Key Player for Alabama’s Defense

Latham’s adjustment to the Wolf linebacker position is not only important for his own development but also for Alabama’s defense as a whole. The 2025 season will see a new group of players stepping into leadership roles, and Latham’s ability to thrive at the Wolf linebacker position will be essential for the team’s success. With the importance of versatility on the defense, Latham’s ability to play multiple roles—whether it’s rushing the passer, stopping the run, or covering in space—will allow Alabama’s defensive coordinator to be more creative in his game planning.

For Latham, the 2025 season represents a major opportunity. The Wolf linebacker position offers the chance to showcase his full potential and prove that he can handle one of the most demanding roles in college football. His combination of size, athleticism, and intelligence makes him a perfect fit for the position, and his continued development will be crucial for Alabama as they look to maintain their place as one of the most dominant defenses in the nation.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Latham and Alabama’s Defense

As Latham continues to adjust to the Wolf linebacker position, it’s clear that his future in Alabama football is bright. His work ethic, combined with his natural abilities, gives him the chance to become one of the best linebackers in the SEC and the nation. With his transition to the Wolf linebacker role, Latham has the chance to make a significant impact on the 2025 season, and his development will be one of the key storylines to follow for Alabama fans.

For Alabama’s defense, Latham represents a piece of the puzzle that will allow the Crimson Tide to remain competitive at the highest level. The challenges he faces in his adjustment to the Wolf linebacker position will only make him a better player, and by the time the season kicks off, Latham will be fully prepared to take on the best offenses the SEC has to offer. With his talent, work ethic, and the support of his coaches, Jah-Marien Latham is ready to become a force in the 2025 season.