Alabama’s Running Back Uncertainty Looms Ahead of 2026 Season
The Crimson Tide’s rushing attack ranked near the bottom of the SEC in 2025, raising questions about the future of key ball‑carriers and the role of incoming freshman EJ Crowell.
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The Crimson Tide’s rushing attack ranked near the bottom of the SEC in 2025, raising questions about the future of key ball‑carriers and the role of incoming freshman EJ Crowell.
The Alabama football program confronts critical questions about its backfield as the 2026 season approaches, with a struggling run game in 2025 prompting a closer look at freshman EJ Crowell, Daniel Hill, Kevin Riley and other emerging options.

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The 2025 season revealed a cluster of teams that turned the red zone into a rushing laboratory, a trend that could redefine play‑calling strategies for the upcoming campaign.
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer has said that freshman running back EJ Crowell will battle for snaps despite a lingering injury, giving the coaching staff a fresh option for the upcoming season. If Crowell manages to top the Crimson Tide’s rushing yards chart, he would become the first freshman to achieve that feat in 41 years, a milestone last reached by Gene Jelks in 1985. His potential impact extends beyond personal accolades; a strong ground game could open up play‑action opportunities and relieve pressure on the passing attack, making his contribution vital to Alabama’s offensive rhythm.
Despite a lingering lower‑leg injury, freshman running back EJ Crowell is being counted on to compete for playing time and could become the first freshman in 41 years to lead Alabama in rushing yards.
Alabama’s coaching staff sees freshman running back EJ Crowell as a possible historic rusher, even as he battles injury. His high school record and reclassification have heightened expectations for the 2026 season.