Every great Alabama offense over the years has shared one thing in common: a dominating offensive line clearing the way for its playmakers. Last season, it was Outland Trophy winner Cam Robinson who served as the anchor up front. The year before that, Remington Trophy winner Ryan Kelly opened holes for Heisman winner Derrick Henry’s historic season.
If the Crimson Tide hopes to continue that trend this year it will need to not only fill the gaping hole left behind by Robinson at left tackle but also find an answer at the right guard position that proved to be a riddle last season. Robinson, a three-year starter will not only be missed on the field but also in the locker room, where he developed into one of the Tide’s four permanent captains last season. Alabama will also see the departure of senior Korren Kirven, who filled in to start at right guard over the final six games.
There will be high expectations placed upon Jonah Williams, as many project the Freshman All-American to move to the left side to take over the role at left tackle. Alabama will return primary starters in center Bradley Bozeman and left guard Ross Pierschbacher while also bringing in a crop of talented offensive linemen in this year’s recruiting class.
* Take a look at our projected depth chart for the 2017 season
*Alabama spring practice position preview - Wide receivers and Tight ends
* Alabama spring practice position preview - Quarterbacks
* Alabama spring practice position preview - Running backs
Below is a breakdown of how the offensive line race will play out and who will come out on top:
