How close is Alabama football to choosing 5 starters on offensive line?

Alabama football is determined to avoid a repeat of the constant lineup shuffling that plagued its offensive line last season. With a brand new group taking the field, the coaching staff understands that chemistry and familiarity are the keys to a successful unit.

Finding the Right Five

Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb confirmed on Tuesday that the Crimson Tide is nearing a final decision on the starting five. As game week approaches, Grubb noted that the unit has maintained consistent rotations, with only a few lingering battles to settle.

"We’re right to the game week, and it’s been pretty consistently the same five," Grubb said. He highlighted that Mal Waldrep and Will Sanders have been trading reps, but outside of that specific position, the group has shown steady cohesion.

The Current Front

Based on recent scrimmage action, the first-team offensive line has featured Jackson Lloyd at left tackle, Mal Waldrep at left guard, Racin Delgatty at center, Michael Carroll at right guard, and Jayvin James at right tackle.

While James has handled the majority of the first-team snaps at right tackle, he has faced stiff competition from Texas transfer Nick Brooks. Grubb noted that the coaching staff remains open to late shifts before the final game prep sets in, but the rotation is nearing its definitive form.

A New Look

Regardless of who ultimately wins the job at left guard, Alabama’s starting front will look entirely different from its 2025 iteration. Michael Carroll is the only member of the projected starting group with previous experience as a starter, having moved inside to guard after starting at right tackle during his freshman campaign.