
Alabama’s Running Backs Aim to Bounce Back in 2026
Despite finishing 125th in rushing yards last year, Alabama's coaching staff and players are optimistic about a turnaround, highlighting new additions, returning talent, and a reshaped depth chart.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning AK Dear across Football, Baseball.

Despite finishing 125th in rushing yards last year, Alabama's coaching staff and players are optimistic about a turnaround, highlighting new additions, returning talent, and a reshaped depth chart.
With the Crimson Tide halfway through fall camp, position battles at quarterback, running back, receiver and defensive spots are intensifying as the team prepares for its season‑opening game against East Carolina on September 5.

The Crimson Tide’s first fall camp scrimmage showcased notable improvements on defense, a promising running back emergence, and a quarterback battle that caught scouts’ attention.
With key backs sidelined and a high‑profile recruit flipping to Illinois, Alabama’s backfield is thin, prompting GM Courtney Morgan to rely on emerging talent like Trae'shawn Brown and a deep‑pocketed compensation package.

Alabama Crimson Tide running back AK Dear will be sidelined for an extended period after a lower‑leg injury sustained during fall camp, though the setback is not season‑ending. His absence reshapes the backfield for the opening game against East Carolina.

A two‑hour practice at Bryant‑Denny Stadium revealed early offensive struggles that gave way to improved execution, while the defense set a strong tone and several key players received notable updates.
Freshman sensation EJ Crowell and veteran Daniel Hill headline a revamped ground game, backed by a unified offensive line and a coaching philosophy that prizes effort and precision.
The Tide opens fall camp on August 5, 2026, setting the stage for a September 5 season opener against East Carolina. Early practices highlight competition at quarterback, running back, wide receiver and other key positions.

ESPN’s Heather Dinich ranks Alabama 17th among 31 teams for the 2026 College Football Playoff, citing a challenging schedule, an unsettled quarterback battle and a pivotal Oct. 10 matchup against Georgia as key factors shaping the Crimson Tide’s postseason chances.

With the 2026 fall camp underway, Alabama’s coaching staff is sorting through competitions at quarterback, running back, the offensive line and defensive spots, setting the stage for a potentially transformative season.

Alabama enters the 2026 season with a young roster, open quarterback competition and key defensive additions, setting the stage for a pivotal year under new coaching directions.

EA Sports’ newest college football title ranks Alabama’s defense among the nation’s elite, spotlighting star players and the intimidating atmosphere of Bryant‑Denny Stadium.

The Crimson Tide managed just 23 rushing yards against Indiana in the Rose Bowl and a negative total against Georgia in the SEC Championship. With key backs returning and a new philosophy from head coach Kalen DeBoer, Alabama aims to restore a ground game that can open up its high‑powered passing attack.
Alabama’s 2025 rushing collapse sets the stage for a 2026 overhaul, centered on top recruit EJ Crowell and a revamped backfield.

Alabama football receives a pledge from Tai Phillips, a four‑star running back from Irmo High School, as the program continues to build a competitive 2027 class.

Four-star prospect Tai Phillips, ranked No. 856 nationally and No. 17 in South Carolina, pledged to Alabama, becoming the second running back in the 2027 class after Nigel Newkirk.

A look at the talent, challenges, and coaching dynamics shaping Alabama's running back corps as the 2026 season approaches.

Alabama's baseball squad secured a 4-seed in the SEC Tournament with a strong series against Ole Miss, while the softball team dominated its regional with stellar pitching. Financial reports reveal a $53.6 million donation boost for football, and national rankings highlight emerging talents and the Steelers' early admiration for rookie Germie Bernard.

Alabama’s baseball and softball teams have secured key victories, while the football program’s financial backing and roster depth set the stage for future triumphs.