The third practice of Alabama’s 2026 fall camp took place on August 7 under head coach Kalen DeBoer, with the team working outdoors on the Thomas Drew Practice Fields in Tuscaloosa. The session was held in 89‑degree heat under clear skies, marking the first time the Crimson Tide wore pads for the season.
Offensive coordinator Kalen DeBoer emphasized run blocking, and wide receivers Cederian Morgan and Ryan Coleman‑Williams lined up in the trenches. Morgan, a 6‑4, 222‑pound freshman, impressed with his physicality, while Coleman‑Williams showed noticeable muscle gain and improved technique.
Quarterbacks Austin Mack and Daniel Hill ran handoff drills with a group of running backs that included freshmen EJ Crowell and Trae'shawn Brown. Both newcomers displayed bursts of speed that caught the coaching staff’s attention.
The passing drill saw Keelon Russell and Austin Mack connect with tight ends while multiple players threw simultaneously to catchers running varied routes. Ty Simpson often served as the short‑route runner, echoing last year’s quarterback battle dynamics.
Defensive line work focused on striking, overseen by defensive coordinator Kane Wommack. Freshman Nolan Wilson struggled to find rhythm, whereas transfer Devan Thompkins drew praise for his size and presence on the line.
NFL scouts were on hand during the media viewing period, including a representative from the Washington Commanders, underscoring the growing external interest in Alabama’s roster.
The offensive line was split into interior and exterior groups. Interior leaders Mal Waldrep Jr., Racin Delgatty and Michael Carroll headed the first unit, followed by William Sanders, Casey Poe and Kaden Strayhorn in the second.
Coach Wommack also made a subtle style shift, swapping his usual sweatsuit for shorts, a small but notable change that added a relaxed vibe to the practice atmosphere.