USA TODAY Sports has released its preseason All‑SEC team for the 2026 college football season, a list that spotlights two standout defenders from the Alabama Crimson Tide. The announcement comes as the program gears up for its season opener on September 5 against the East Carolina Pirates, a game that will be televised nationally on ABC.
Hubbard’s Historic Interception Record
Bray Hubbard earned a unanimous spot on the preseason list after leading the SEC with 10 interceptions in 2025, a performance that also secured him All‑SEC First Team honors from both the Associated Press and the league coaches. His all‑around production included 4.5 tackles for loss, six pass breakups and three forced fumbles, underscoring his impact beyond sheer turnover creation.
The Athletic placed Hubbard on its own preseason All‑SEC squad, while Walter Camp named him to the second‑team All‑America list. Pro Football Focus also ranked him the 15th‑best overall player entering the new year, reflecting the high expectations placed on his defensive skill set.
Brown’s Consistent Impact
Zabien Brown, a cornerback who has started every game over the past two seasons, brings a track record of reliability and playmaking ability. He finished the 2025 campaign with five career interceptions, 13 pass breakups and 4.5 tackles for loss, highlighted by two pick‑six returns that swung momentum in key moments.
Brown’s consistency has made him a cornerstone of Alabama’s secondary, and his experience will be crucial as the Crimson Tide look to translate preseason accolades into on‑field dominance.
Looking Ahead
The early recognition underscores the expectations placed on Alabama’s defense, which returns a deep rotation of talent and aims to contend for the SEC title. Both Hubbard and Brown are viewed as anchors for a secondary that could shape the team’s identity as the season unfolds, and fans will be eager to see how their preseason momentum carries into the September 5 opener against East Carolina.