Alabama football's defensive coordinator Kane Wommack is in a unique position as bowl prep begins. He has the opportunity to develop his players and gain insights into the future of the 2025 defense. One area that requires attention is the Husky position in the defensive backfield.

Uncovering the Future of Alabama Football's Defense

The Departure of DeVonta Smith

In 2024, DeVonta Smith, the starting Husky, entered the transfer portal and committed to Notre Dame. This left a significant hole in the Alabama defense. Wommack knows the kind of player he desires at Husky, a versatile individual capable of adapting to different positions. 1: The loss of Smith was a blow to the team, but Wommack is determined to find a suitable replacement. He understands the importance of having a player with a unique skill set that allows them to excel in multiple roles. This not only provides depth but also gives the defense more flexibility. 2: Wommack has been studying the game and identifying potential candidates. He is looking for players who can bring a combination of speed, agility, and football IQ to the position. The search is on to find the next star at Husky.

DaShawn Jones and Red Morgan

During the 2024 regular season, DaShawn Jones, who transferred from Wake Forest, backed up Smith and recorded impressive stats with 20 sacks, two tackles-for-loss, and 0.5 sacks. Red Morgan also played both Husky and cornerback in 2024, adding to the team's options. 1: Jones has shown potential and could be a key player in the ReliaQuest Bowl. His ability to generate pressure on the quarterback is a valuable asset. Morgan's versatility also gives Wommack more flexibility in his defensive schemes. 2: However, Wommack is not relying solely on these two players. He is considering freshmen and portal options to fill the role and create even more depth. The competition is heating up as the team prepares for spring workouts, fall camp, and the 2025 regular season.

The Importance of Multiple Positions

Wommack emphasizes the need for players who can play multiple positions on defense. This is crucial in today's college football landscape where depth is essential. By identifying players who can adapt, the team can be more prepared for any situation. 1: The ability to move guys around and work multiple positions creates a more dynamic defense. It allows the coaches to match up with different opponents and exploit their weaknesses. It also helps in developing players and giving them more opportunities to showcase their skills. 2: Wommack is working hard to instill this philosophy in his players. He wants them to be versatile and ready to contribute in any capacity. This approach will pay dividends in the long run as the team continues to build and improve.Colin Gay covers Alabama football for The Tuscaloosa News, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at cgay@gannett.com or follow him @_ColinGay on X, formerly known as Twitter.