Alabama football’s major concerns include quarterback competition, wide receiver depth, offensive line rebuilding, defensive line development, and secondary stability.

As Alabama football heads into its 2025 spring practice, expectations are always high for one of the most successful and storied programs in college football history. Under head coach Nick Saban, Alabama has consistently fielded championship-caliber teams, with an emphasis on elite recruiting, disciplined play, and strong team culture. However, as with every season, there are areas of concern that need to be addressed in spring practice. These issues may not be monumental, but they are important if Alabama wants to maintain its position at the top of college football.

In this article, we will explore the major concerns for Alabama football heading into spring practice for the 2025 season. These concerns span various positions, from quarterback to the defensive line, as well as coaching adjustments, roster turnover, and maintaining the program’s overall culture of excellence. Addressing these challenges in the spring will be vital to Alabama’s success during the regular season and, ultimately, its pursuit of another national championship.

1. Quarterback Competition

One of the most pressing concerns heading into the 2025 season is the quarterback situation. Alabama is entering a period of uncertainty at the quarterback position, as longtime starter Bryce Young has moved on to the NFL after an outstanding college career. The Tide must now replace one of the best quarterbacks in the program’s history, and finding a capable successor is critical.

Jalen Milroe, a dual-threat quarterback, has already seen some action as a backup, but he has yet to prove himself as a consistent starter. His athleticism and playmaking ability are undeniable, but his accuracy as a passer and decision-making under pressure remain key areas of focus. Ty Simpson, another highly-touted quarterback prospect, will also be vying for the starting role, and his performance in spring practice will be vital in determining the direction of the position.

A major concern here is finding the right balance between the traditional Alabama power-running game and incorporating a quarterback who can make plays with his arm and legs. The competition between Milroe and Simpson will be intense, and both quarterbacks will need to show that they can lead the offense effectively and avoid turning the ball over in critical moments. Spring practice will provide them with the perfect opportunity to establish themselves as the leader under center.

2. Wide Receiver Depth

Alabama’s wide receiver room has traditionally been one of the most talented and deep positions on the roster, but heading into 2025, there are some question marks. Several key contributors from the previous season have moved on to the NFL, and now it is time for younger players to step up and prove they can fill those roles. While the talent is there, there is a concern about the lack of proven production at the position.

Jermaine Burton, who was one of Alabama’s top wide receivers in 2024, will be one of the key returners, but the team will need more help from emerging players. Kobe Prentice, Isaiah Bond, and others have shown flashes of potential, but none have consistently demonstrated the ability to take over a game. The addition of incoming freshman Jalen Hale could be a game-changer, but it’s unclear how quickly he will adapt to the SEC level.

Another concern is the development of the wide receiver corps as a whole. Alabama will need to develop a wide range of weapons for its new quarterback, as the passing attack must remain a central part of the offense. The team’s ability to stretch the field, create separation, and catch passes in tight windows will determine how successful the offense can be in 2025.

In spring practice, the focus will be on getting young players the experience they need to compete at a high level. Whoever emerges as the top pass-catcher alongside Burton will be crucial for the offense’s success.

3. Offensive Line Rebuilding

The offensive line has been a hallmark of Alabama football for years, and with several key players from the 2024 season leaving for the NFL or graduation, there are significant concerns regarding the offensive front. Alabama is known for producing dominant offensive lines, but the program will need to reload in 2025 with a new group of players.

Key departures include offensive linemen like Tyler Steen, Javion Cohen, and Emil Ekiyor Jr., all of whom played pivotal roles in the Tide’s line. Their departures leave significant holes, especially on the interior, which will need to be filled with new faces. Returning players like Evan Neal and JC Latham will be crucial for providing leadership and stability, but it’s unclear how the younger players will respond to increased responsibilities.

The biggest concern on the offensive line is whether Alabama can maintain its traditional dominance in the trenches. The team needs players who can not only protect the quarterback but also pave the way for the running game, which has long been the foundation of Alabama’s offensive success. A lack of depth at certain positions could create concerns, especially when facing elite defensive fronts in the SEC.

Spring practice will be a critical time for the offensive line to gel and develop chemistry. With incoming freshmen like Quinton Thomas and David Herring, there is potential for the line to develop quickly, but there are still many unknowns as the unit prepares for the 2025 season.

4. Defensive Line Concerns

Another area of concern for Alabama football in 2025 is the defensive line. While the Tide has had great success with elite pass rushers and dominant interior linemen over the years, the program must replace several key players, including Byron Young and DJ Dale, who have both moved on to the NFL. This creates a situation where Alabama will need to develop a new generation of defensive linemen who can continue to wreak havoc in the SEC.

Jaheim Oatis, Tim Smith, and Justin Eboigbe are among the returning players who will have to step up and fill these leadership roles, but the depth behind them is somewhat unproven. The Tide needs a new wave of talent to emerge in spring practice to ensure that the defensive line can continue to apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks while also controlling the line of scrimmage against the run.

The biggest concern is the lack of established depth and experience in the defensive line rotation. If Alabama’s defensive line can’t generate consistent pressure or clog up running lanes, it could limit the team’s ability to disrupt opposing offenses, especially in high-stakes SEC matchups.

5. Linebacker Development

While the linebacker position at Alabama is often one of its strongest, the team will need to develop some of its young talent for 2025. With the departure of leaders like Henry To’o To’o and Will Anderson Jr., the linebackers need to step up in both leadership and production. There are some promising players, including Dallas Turner, Jaylen Moody, and Kendrick Blackshire, but there are concerns about their ability to play at a consistently high level.

Alabama will need its linebackers to be versatile, capable of excelling against both the run and the pass. With SEC offenses evolving to incorporate more spread systems and quick throws, Alabama’s linebackers must be able to cover the field effectively. They must also be able to continue the tradition of stopping the run and maintaining control of the line of scrimmage.

The biggest concern for Alabama’s linebacking corps in 2025 is whether the team can maintain its typical excellence at the position. Young players like Malik Muhammad will be counted on to develop quickly and contribute, while others will have to show they can lead the defense in a variety of ways. The spring practice period will be critical in evaluating the depth and overall ability of the linebacker group.

6. Secondary Concerns

Alabama’s secondary has long been a strength of the team, but with key players like Kool-Aid McKinstry and Jordan Battle moving on to the NFL, there are some concerns regarding the depth and leadership in the secondary. While returning players like Malachi Moore and Brian Branch bring experience and leadership, the Tide will need to reload in the defensive backfield.

The biggest concern is finding players who can provide consistent playmaking in the secondary. Alabama has been known for producing elite cornerbacks and safeties, and with younger players like Earl Little Jr. and Julian Sayles entering the fold, there is an opportunity for new leaders to emerge.

However, there’s a sense of urgency for Alabama to identify its playmakers early. The SEC is home to some of the best passing offenses in the country, and Alabama’s secondary must be prepared for these challenges. Spring practice will be a key time for the coaching staff to evaluate the secondary and determine who will step up to take on critical roles.

7. Special Teams Stability

While special teams are often overlooked, they can be a difference-maker in close games. Alabama’s kicking game has been a source of concern in recent years, with inconsistent performances from both the kicker and punter positions. With Will Reichard no longer on the roster, Alabama needs to find a reliable kicker who can perform under pressure.

The return game is another area where Alabama needs improvement. With the departure of key returners, the team needs to find players who can change the momentum of a game with big plays on special teams. The stability of Alabama’s special teams unit, both in coverage and return game, will play a significant role in determining the outcome of several close contests.

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