The 2025 Alabama Crimson Tide football team enters its second season under head coach Kalen DeBoer, aiming to reestablish itself as a national powerhouse. After a 9–4 campaign in 2024, the Tide have retooled their roster and coaching staff to contend in the highly competitive SEC.
Kalen DeBoer returns for his second year, bringing continuity and a renewed focus on offensive innovation. Ryan Grubb joins as the new offensive coordinator, introducing a spread offense designed to maximize the team’s athleticism. On defense, Kane Wommack enters his second year as coordinator, implementing a 4-2-5 scheme aimed at enhancing speed and versatility. The staff also includes Jason Jones, a former Alabama player, now coaching safeties.
Offense
Quarterback
With the departure of Jalen Milroe to the NFL, the quarterback position is open. Ty Simpson, a junior, currently leads the competition, showcasing his experience and understanding of the offense. Sophomore Austin Mack and freshman Keelon Russell are also in the mix, providing depth and future potential.
Running Backs
The backfield is led by senior Jam Miller, who brings experience and reliability. He is complemented by Louisiana transfer Dre’lyn Washington and sophomore Richard Young, both of whom offer power and explosiveness. Freshman Akylin Dear adds depth and versatility to the unit.
Wide Receivers
The receiving corps has been bolstered by the addition of Miami transfer Isaiah Horton, who has impressed during spring practices. Sophomore Ryan Williams and freshman Lotzeir Brooks have also shown promise, providing the offense with multiple playmaking options.
Offensive Line
The offensive line features a mix of experience and new talent. Veterans like Kadyn Proctor and Parker Brailsford anchor the line, while newcomers such as Kam Dewberry and freshman Michael Carroll compete for starting roles. The line’s development is crucial for the success of the new offensive scheme.
️ Defense
Alabama’s defense transitions to a 4-2-5 scheme under Kane Wommack, emphasizing speed and flexibility.
Defensive Line
The defensive front is anchored by senior Tim Keenan III and junior James Smith, providing strength up the middle. Edge rushers like sophomore Keon Keeley and junior Kelby Collins are expected to pressure opposing quarterbacks effectively.
Linebackers
Senior Deontae Lawson leads the linebacker unit, bringing leadership and tackling prowess. He is joined by Colorado transfer Nikhai Hill-Green, who adds experience and depth to the group
Secondary
The secondary is highlighted by five-star freshman cornerback Dijon Lee, who has impressed coaches with his athleticism and coverage skills. He is expected to make an immediate impact alongside returning players, enhancing the team’s pass defense.
Special teams see new faces with the departure of key players. Sophomore Conor Talty is expected to handle placekicking duties, while senior Blake Doud takes over as punter. Former Cal long snapper David Bird joins the team, bringing consistency to the snapping unit.
Alabama’s 2025 schedule is challenging, featuring several high-profile matchups:
- Aug 30: at Florida State
- Sep 6: vs ULM
- Sep 13: Wisconsin
- Sep 27: at Georgia
- Oct 4: Vanderbilt
- Oct 11: at Missouri
- Oct 18: Tennessee
- Oct 25: at South Carolina
- Nov 8: vs LSU
- Nov 15: vs Oklahoma
- Nov 22: Eastern Illinois
- Nov 29: at Auburn
These games will test the team’s resilience and determine their standing in the SEC and national rankings.
The 2025 Alabama Crimson Tide are poised for a competitive season with a blend of experienced leaders and promising newcomers. The implementation of new offensive and defensive schemes aims to revitalize the team’s performance. Success will depend on the development of key positions, particularly quarterback and offensive line, as well as the integration of new defensive strategies. With a demanding schedule ahead, Alabama’s adaptability and depth will be critical in their pursuit of SEC dominance and national championship contention.
Predicting Alabama’s 2025 Season
Aug. 30 Alabama 27, Florida State 21
Sept. 6 UL-Monroe 17, Alabama 28
Sept. 13 Wisconsin 28, Alabama 32
Sept. 27 Alabama 41, Georgia 42
Oct. 4 Vanderbilt 28, Alabama 38
Oct. 11 Alabama 35, Missouri 19
Oct. 18 Tennessee 29, Alabama 42
Oct. 25 Alabama 34, South Carolina 31
Nov. 8 LSU 35, Alabama 42
Nov. 15 Oklahoma 38, Alabama 35
Nov. 29 Alabama 34, Auburn 30
9-3
QUOTING KALEN DEBOER
It doesn’t always come down to who had the highest completion percentage because sometimes it’s so close it’s a lot of times a mixture of you know who’s moving the ball down the field the most I mean that’s what’s most important right is putting points on the board and so, um you know who’s keeping uh the ball who’s making the least amount of mistakes uh big mistakes in particular an. Then you’re also just trying to give them all a chance because they’re at different points in their career where they’re all grow their growth is happening in different ways um no one has significant amount of playing time reps in a game uh but obviously they are at different levels and all have uh different things that they’ve shown us that they can do at a high level already this spring awesome. Thank you.
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer at SEC Spring Meetings, May 27, 2025.
