50 players Alabama fans need to know: Lone OL returning starter’s move could be crucial for 2026
Alabama football's offensive line will look different in 2026. That could include a position change for Michael Carroll.
Olivia Bennett 
EDITOR’S NOTE: Between now and the unofficial kickoff to the football preseason at SEC Media Days on July 20, 205focus.com is highlighting one Alabama football player every day. Today, we turn our attention to offensive lineman Michael Carroll.
6-foot-6, 308 pounds, Doylestown, Pa.
After a 2025 season defined by significant struggles in the trenches—particularly in establishing a consistent run game—the Crimson Tide are tasked with rebuilding nearly their entire offensive line. With all but one starter from last year's group departing, the focus shifts to the veteran presence tasked with anchoring this new-look unit.
The Lone Returning Starter
Michael Carroll enters the 2026 season as the only returning starter on the offensive line. Mid-way through the 2025 campaign, Carroll stepped into the lineup, taking over right tackle duties from Wilkin Formby—who has since transferred to Texas A&M. Despite the typical growing pains associated with collegiate starts, Carroll proved to be a rare bright spot, earning freshman all-conference honors from SEC coaches and securing spots on multiple freshman All-America lists.
A Tactical Shift Inside
While Carroll has long viewed himself as a tackle, spring practices under new offensive line coach Adrian Klemm—who replaced Chris Kapilovic—pointed toward a potential position change. Head coach Kalen DeBoer praised Carroll's versatility throughout the spring, noting his ability to play both inside and out. Following the team's first scrimmage, DeBoer emphasized the importance of rotation and finding the optimal configuration for the line.
The intent became clear during A-Day, where Carroll saw reps at right guard while Mississippi State transfer Jayvin James occupied the right tackle spot. Embracing the team-first mentality, Carroll noted, “That’s what the team needs. The best opportunity they feel to win is me moving to guard, so I’m happy to do that to help Alabama win games.”
As Kalen DeBoer looks to elevate the Alabama offense, the performance of the offensive line remains a critical pillar for success. If Carroll’s transition to the interior can solidify the group, the strategic move could pay massive dividends for the Tide in the coming season.
COMING WEDNESDAY: We feature Crimson Tide veteran defensive back Keon Sabb.
