How Josh Cuevas is Handling His New Leadership Role in the Tight End Room

As Alabama’s football team transitions into a new era under head coach Kalen DeBoer, several players have stepped up to assume leadership roles. One of the most notable among them is tight end Josh Cuevas. Having transferred from Washington alongside DeBoer, Cuevas brings not only talent but also a deep understanding of the offensive system. Now, as a veteran presence in the tight end room, he is embracing his new responsibilities as a leader and mentor for his teammates.

The Journey to Alabama

Cuevas’s road to Alabama has been anything but conventional. Originally a standout at Cal Poly, he made a name for himself with impressive receiving numbers, earning third-team All-Big Sky recognition. His ability to create mismatches and serve as a reliable target led to a transfer to Washington in 2023, where he continued to develop under DeBoer’s coaching staff.

At Washington, Cuevas played in all 15 games, gaining valuable experience in a high-powered offensive scheme. Though his individual statistics were not eye-popping, his role in the offense and familiarity with the system made him an invaluable asset. When DeBoer made the move to Alabama, Cuevas followed, recognizing the opportunity to contribute at one of the most prestigious programs in college football.

Stepping into a Leadership Role

With Alabama undergoing significant changes, the tight end room became one of the key areas of focus. The departure of veteran tight end CJ Dippre left a leadership void, and Cuevas found himself in a position to step up. His familiarity with DeBoer’s system immediately made him a go-to resource for his teammates.

“Josh has been instrumental in helping us transition to this new offense,” said fellow tight end Robbie Ouzts. “He’s been through it before, so anytime we have a question—whether it’s signals, footwork, or a particular scheme—he’s the guy we go to.”

For Cuevas, leadership is not just about understanding the X’s and O’s; it’s about setting an example through work ethic and attitude. Whether it’s in the weight room, on the practice field, or in the film room, he has made it a priority to lead by example.

“You can’t just talk about leadership—you have to show it every day,” Cuevas said. “I want to make sure I’m doing everything I can to help this team, whether that’s making plays or helping the younger guys get comfortable in the system.”

Gaining Respect Through Performance

One of the best ways to establish leadership is through performance, and Cuevas has done just that. During spring practices, he has showcased his versatility as both a receiver and a blocker, proving that he can be a valuable weapon in DeBoer’s offense.

Alabama tight ends coach Bryan Ellis has praised Cuevas’s dedication and toughness, qualities that are crucial for the position. “Josh is a hard worker who doesn’t back down from challenges. He understands the physicality that comes with playing tight end in the SEC, and he’s embracing it. That’s exactly what we need from a leader in that room.”

Cuevas’s ability to perform under pressure has also helped him earn the trust of his new teammates. In scrimmages, he has demonstrated strong hands, precise route-running, and an ability to create separation from defenders. His presence as a reliable target will be critical for Alabama’s offense as it adapts to DeBoer’s system.

Mentorship and Building Chemistry

Beyond his on-field performance, Cuevas has taken an active role in mentoring the younger tight ends on the roster. For many of them, adjusting to a new coaching staff and offensive scheme can be overwhelming, but having someone like Cuevas to guide them has made a significant difference.

Redshirt freshman Preston Hooks credited Cuevas with helping him understand the nuances of the playbook. “Josh has been like a big brother to me,” Hooks said. “He takes the time to break things down, whether it’s explaining routes or giving pointers on blocking technique. Having that kind of support has been huge.”

Building chemistry with his teammates has been another area of focus for Cuevas. Whether it’s organizing extra film sessions or staying after practice to work on drills, he has made an effort to foster a strong bond within the tight end group.

“We’re all in this together,” Cuevas said. “The more we push each other, the better we’re going to be as a unit. I want to make sure everyone feels confident and ready to contribute when their number is called.”

The Importance of Leadership in the New Era

As Alabama transitions into the DeBoer era, leadership will be crucial in maintaining the program’s high standards. Cuevas’s emergence as a leader in the tight end room reflects the broader theme of veteran players stepping up to guide the team through this period of change.

Former Alabama head coach Nick Saban built the program on discipline, accountability, and leadership—values that DeBoer has also emphasized. Players like Cuevas, who embody these qualities, will play a key role in ensuring a smooth transition and continued success.

“Leadership isn’t just about knowing the playbook,” Cuevas explained. “It’s about holding yourself and your teammates accountable, pushing each other to be better, and making sure everyone is locked in on the same goal.”

Looking Ahead: Cuevas’s Role in the 2024 Season

With the 2024 season approaching, Cuevas is expected to be a key contributor for Alabama’s offense. His combination of experience, leadership, and versatility makes him an asset in both the passing and blocking aspects of the game.

While Alabama has a deep tight end room, Cuevas’s knowledge of DeBoer’s system gives him an edge. He is likely to be heavily involved in the offensive game plan, particularly in red-zone situations where his size and hands make him a valuable target.

Beyond his individual performance, Cuevas remains focused on helping the team as a whole succeed. His leadership will be crucial in setting the tone for the tight end unit and ensuring that Alabama’s offense operates at a high level.

“I came here to win,” Cuevas said. “Whatever role I need to play, I’m ready for it. The most important thing is that we come together as a team and push for a championship.”

Final Thoughts

Josh Cuevas’s journey to Alabama and his emergence as a leader in the tight end room is a testament to his dedication and resilience. As the Crimson Tide adapts to a new system, his presence provides stability and guidance for his teammates.

Through his work ethic, on-field performance, and mentorship, Cuevas is proving that leadership is about more than just words—it’s about actions. And as Alabama prepares for the 2024 season, his role will be more important than ever in helping the team navigate the challenges ahead.

Whether it’s making a clutch catch, setting a key block, or helping a teammate improve, Cuevas is ready to embrace the responsibilities that come with being a leader. And in doing so, he is ensuring that the future of Alabama’s tight end room is in good hands.