The 2019 recruiting class is now on the clock.
The Recruiting Big Board is a look at how Alabama stacks up both now and in the future at every position. Inside we will take a look at the Crimson Tide’s current needs and possible players it might add to replace them.
Today’s breakdown: Linebacker
RETURNING (12)
Christian Miller, R-Sr.
Keith Holcombe, R-Sr.
Jamey Mosley, R-Sr.
Anfernee Jennings, R-Jr.
Joshua McMillon, R-Jr.
Mack Wilson, Jr.
Terrell Lewis, Jr.
Ben Davis, R-So.
Dylan Moses, So.
VanDarius Cowan, So.
Christopher Smith, So.
Markail Benton, R-Fr.
NEW ADDITIONS (5)
Eyabi Anoma
Jarez Parks
Jordan Davis
Cameron Latu
Jaylen Moody
OVERVIEW
A myriad of injuries at the linebacker position last season might have come as a blessing in disguise for Alabama. While the Crimson Tide will need to find replacements for departing starters in Rashaan Evans and Shaun Dion Hamilton, it has several capable and experienced options ready to step in.
A pair of former five-stars in Mack Wilson and Dylan Moses are the most likely to replace Evans and Hamilton in the middle. Wilson broke his foot against LSU last season, the same game that saw Hamilton suffer a season-ending knee injury. Moses filled in at Mike linebacker in both players’ absence before Wilson returned in time to start both of Alabama’s playoff games.
Alabama will also have all its outside linebackers back to full strength. Last season, Terrell Lewis and Christian Miller missed most of the regular season after sustaining serious injuries in the opening game against Florida State. Anfernee Jennings was also injured in the opener, causing him to miss the next two weeks. He then injured his knee in the Sugar Bowl, forcing him to miss the national championship game. All three outside linebackers will be back next season, providing Alabama with a dangerous pass rush.
Five-star freshman Eyabi Anoma, who is built in the same mold as Lewis and former Alabama pass rusher Tim Williams, should add to that attack. Sophomores VanDarius Cowan and Christopher Smith are also poised for breakout seasons.
