Kalen DeBoer evaluates inside linebackers after first scrimmage, including ‘a guy I’d make a note of’
Kalen DeBoer was asked after the first Alabama football scrimmage about the inside linebackers, and in his answer, he decided to evaluate them not just on the scrimmage but also the week of practice.
Olivia Bennett 
Alabama football faces a significant transition at the inside linebacker position this season, and head coach Kalen DeBoer is already seeing promising development within the unit. Following the team's first scrimmage on Thursday, DeBoer provided an assessment of the group, looking at both their performance in the scrimmage and their progression throughout the week of practice.
Rising Stars and Proven Talent
DeBoer singled out a few players who have stood out during camp. "Luke Metz is a guy I’d make a note of," DeBoer said. "The way he plays every snap as a young guy, he’s getting better and better, as you’d expect." Metz enters his second season after contributing primarily on special teams across 15 games as a freshman.
The coach also praised the veteran presence of Caleb Woodson, a transfer from Virginia Tech. With 35 games of collegiate experience, including 152 tackles and 11.5 tackles for loss, Woodson has been a consistent source of energy for the defense. DeBoer also highlighted sophomore Abduall Sanders, noting that he has taken significant reps and consistently maintains his assignments.
Building Depth
Another player in the mix for snaps is Birmingham native QB Reese. Now entering his junior year, Reese has primarily served on special teams but has seen limited action on defense, most notably recording a fumble recovery against Louisiana Monroe.
As 205focus.com readers know, the Crimson Tide are tasked with filling the void left by the departures of Deontae Lawson, Justin Jefferson, and Nikhai Hill-Green to the NFL. Despite the turnover, DeBoer remains encouraged by the group's communication and steady performance.
"Guys are consistent," DeBoer said. "It’s a group that I think has consistently performed. The communication starts with them. They’re doing a good job there as well."
