Notebook: Green ruled out for 2010 season

TUSCALOOSA _ University of Alabama defensive back Robby Green has been declared ineligible for the entire 2010 season by the National Collegiate Athletic Association.

The junior will be able to practice and remain on scholarship during the suspension, but can't redshirt the year.

"Even though we are very disappointed we will continue to support Robby in every way possible," Coach Nick Saban said in a release. "He'll practice and do all the other things with our team in terms of classes and workouts, but just won't be eligible to play in any games this fall.

"His attitude has been outstanding through this and his effort in practice has been very good as well. Even if he isn't playing, he can still have a significant impact on our team by helping out the younger players in the secondary and competing against the offense to make them better. We look forward to having Robby back on the field next fall for his senior season."

Green was expected to challenge Robert Lester for the starting job at free safety this spring, and might have a much tougher time next year when the Crimson Tide is expected to have a lot more depth.

He played in all 14 games last season with six starts including the BCS National Championship Game. He was credited with 33 tackles (28 solo) to go with six pass breakups and one interception against LSU. The New Orleans native was also a fixture on special teams.

He was one of 16 true freshmen to play for Alabama in 2008, but moved from cornerback to safety during the offseason and backed up Justin Woodall. Third-team All-American Mark Barron is the lone returning starter in the secondary and backed up by Rod Woodson.

Injury report

Linebacker Tana Patrick was cleared to practice and back in uniform after sustaining a concussion in last week's scrimmage.

Linebacker Nico Johnson (knee sprain), was in black, signaling no contact along with outside linebacker Milton Talbert. Reserve offensive lineman Russell Raines rode an exercise bike during practice.

More movement

Joe Pendry switched his guards on the second unit during individual drills, putting John Michael Boswell on the left side behind Chance Warmack, and Anthony Steen on the right side behind Barrett Jones.

Also, Aaron Joiner was on the third unit at left guard.

Jerrell Harris was working with the interior linebackers again.

Tide-bits

ESPN's College Football Live unveiled its first Top 25 during Friday's show, with Alabama at No. 1 followed by Ohio State, Boise State, Texas and Virginia Tech. Among SEC teams, Florida was seventh, LSU 14th, Arkansas 18th and Georgia 23rd.

Kendall Kelly continued to work at safety with Brandon Gibson apparently

concentrating on wide receiver Friday. Both are learning safety this spring due to depth concerns.

Alabama will hold its second scrimmage of the spring Saturday at Bryant-Denny Stadium at 1 p.m., but is closed to the public.