Alabama Crimson Tide Names New 2025 Captains Updates Injury, SEC Schedule

Alabama football head coach Kalen DeBoer provided updates on key player injuries ahead of the season opener, noting that running back Jam Miller will miss at least the first game, while defensive tackle James Smith is back in practice. Senior guard Jaeden Roberts remains in concussion protocol and is unlikely to start. The team has named four permanent captains for 2025: quarterback Ty Simpson, center Parker Brailsford, defensive lineman Tim Keenan III, and linebacker Deontae Lawson, with Simpson and Keenan earning the role for the first time, and Lawson becoming a two-time captain. Recruiting efforts continue strongly, with Alabama heavily pursuing 2027 quarterback Trent Seaborn, who has visited Tuscaloosa over ten times and maintains strong relationships with the coaching staff. Meanwhile, commentator Stephen A. Smith criticized DeBoer's approach as "soft" compared to previous Nick Saban-led teams and suggested that bringing in a coach like Deion Sanders could be beneficial for the program's competitiveness in the SEC. These developments highlight Alabama's preparation and leadership structure as the team aims to improve on last season's 9-4 record under DeBoer.