Spring practice has wrapped up, and Alabama football now faces a four-month wait until the 2025 season kicks off.
Some positions are shaping up as clear strengths wide receiver and defensive back are near the top of that list. Both units boast not just standout talent but also solid depth. However, other spots on the roster raise concerns due to shallow depth or a lack of experience. Building reliable depth has become increasingly difficult in the era of the transfer portal and NIL. While a program can reward its starters, backup players are often lured away by other teams offering more money and playing time. Even so, creating as much quality depth as possible remains crucial.
Here’s a look at three positions where Alabama currently lacks depth heading into the summer and what can be done about it.
Punter
There’s no established starter here, and even less clarity when it comes to depth. Alabama’s options Alex Asparuhov, Blake Doud, and Anderson Green — have little to no experience at the Division I level. One is a freshman recovering from injury, another a sophomore who didn’t see the field in 2024, and the third is a redshirt senior from Division II’s Colorado School of Mines. Altogether, the punting situation is one of the most uncertain on the roster.
Offensive Tackle
Kadyn Proctor is expected to reclaim his role at left tackle once healthy, and Wilkin Formby appears to be the frontrunner at right tackle. But beyond that, depth is thin. Jackson Lloyd has potential but is still just a freshman. Ball State transfer Arkel Anugwom is considered more of a developmental piece. Olaus Alinen got some reps at left tackle in the spring but hasn’t played significant snaps outside special teams. Right now, there’s no clear backup ready to step in if either starter goes down.
Tight End
Injuries hit this group hard during spring. By the end, Jay Lindsey was the lone scholarship tight end available. “He had to step up out of necessity, and he did a good job,” said offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb. While help is expected to arrive this fall, the unit took a hit with the departures of CJ Dippre and Robbie Ouzts to the NFL. Veterans Josh Cuevas and Danny Lewis Jr. are set to contribute in 2025, but depth behind them is thin.
How Alabama Can Respond
The Tide has two main options: look to the transfer portal or develop existing talent. Going the portal route is quicker but comes at a high cost. If the fit and price are right, Alabama could fill in depth at one or more of these spots. Otherwise, investing in player development is a longer-term strategy but potentially the more sustainable one as acquiring depth through the portal grows increasingly expensive.
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