Heading into spring practice, Alabama was already dealing with limited depth at the tight end position. On Friday, head coach Kalen DeBoer revealed that the situation had deteriorated further.
With Danny Lewis Jr. already sidelined for the entire spring, DeBoer announced that two more tight ends were now unavailable.
“Josh Cuevas is out for the rest of spring but should return in the fall, and Marshall Pritchett is also out,” said DeBoer. “We were already pretty thin at tight end, especially with some guys like (incoming freshman) Kaleb Edwards not on campus yet and Lewis unable to practice. So it’s gotten even thinner.”
Alabama had already lost key contributors CJ Dippre and Robbie Ouzts to the NFL Draft process, leaving Lewis and Cuevas as the expected leaders at the position though they’re now on the shelf until fall camp. That leaves redshirt freshman Jay Lindsey as the lone scholarship tight end currently available.
Despite the shortage, DeBoer said practices are continuing, with offensive and defensive units adjusting accordingly.
“The offense and defense are collaborating to get the right looks,” he said. “We’re making the most of substitutions, placing players in unfamiliar roles just to keep things moving.”
DeBoer also shared updates on other injuries. Receiver Ryan Williams missed the scrimmage and is unlikely to participate much the rest of spring due to minor issues. As for defensive back Keon Sabb, who missed the end of last season with a lower-body injury, DeBoer said the recovery is going well.
“We’re getting great reports on Keon,” he said. “In fact, today’s was probably the best yet. It’s encouraging to see him hit each milestone. He’s on track and working hard. What he played through last fall, especially around the Tennessee game, showed how tough and committed he is. He has everyone’s respect.”
Alabama’s spring practice will continue through April 12, concluding with an open practice session for A-Day at Bryant-Denny Stadium. However, in 2025, A-Day will not feature a traditional scrimmage or be televised.
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