Notebook: Mitchell on medical
Alabama cornerback Lionel Mitchell won't play this fall after being medically disqualified, according to Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban.
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The senior finished spring drills in a black (non-contact) jersey with a back injury. At that time, Saban noted back injuries can be "tricky", and Mitchell's status for fall practice was uncertain.
Mitchell made one interception last season, against Georgia, but lost his starting job soon after and played fewer snaps the rest of the season.
In other news, Saban remarked on the following:
*** Crimson Tide senior wide receiver Will Oakley broke a bone in his foot during a workout Wednesday and underwent surgery Thursday.
"It was just a freak thing - he's going to be tight as far as whether he's ready for fall camp," Saban said.
*** Saban said the only incoming freshmen who are certain not to enroll this fall are Melvin Ray, who has opted for a pro baseball career, and Brandon Lewis, who did not meet academic requirements. Saban noted wide receiver Destin Hood has yet to sign with the Washington Nationals, who made him a second-round draft choice in June. BamaOnLine.com reported several weeks ago that Lewis would be headed to Hargrave Military Academy.
*** Saban said cornerback Kareem Jackson and linebacker Charlie Higgenbotham underwent corrective surgery for what he called "minor" sports hernias.