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NCAAF News: Kalen DeBoer provides key injury update on one of Alabama’s star players

Once again led by Kalen DeBoer, the Alabama Crimson Tide will look to return to national prominence in the upcoming NCAAF season.

Head coach Kalen DeBoer of the Alabama Crimson Tide looks on during warmups prior to facing the Georgia Bulldogs at Bryant-Denny Stadium on September 28, 2024 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
© Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesHead coach Kalen DeBoer of the Alabama Crimson Tide looks on during warmups prior to facing the Georgia Bulldogs at Bryant-Denny Stadium on September 28, 2024 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Alabama Crimson Tide remains one of the premier programs in college football, though last season they fell short of showing their full potential. Looking ahead, head coach Kalen DeBoer is focused on building the most competitive roster possible — and avoiding serious injuries will be one of the key factors in achieving that goal.

Ryan Williams, one of the key pieces in Alabama’s offense, ended spring practice with a little bit of a ding. However, the experienced HC eased concerns among fans by making it clear that he expects to have his wide receiver back by the summer.

“Unfortunately, at the end of spring ball, he suffered a little bit of a ding,” DeBoer said to the press. “He’ll be fine. He’ll be ready to roll here this summer. But going back all the way to January, just kind of him understanding — even from last season — where he needed to get better. It’s being stronger. He’s just younger. The body maturing, and then him putting the work in — just being stronger, more durable, those types of things.”

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Williams was one of Jalen Milroe’s top weapons last season in Tuscaloosa, which is why expectations are high for him heading into the upcoming campaign. His physical condition will be a crucial factor in his ability to deliver once again.

Ryan Williams Alabama

Ryan Williams #2 of the Alabama Crimson Tide catches a pass during warmups prior to facing the South Carolina Gamecocks at Bryant-Denny Stadium on October 12, 2024 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

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The importance of the wide receiver unit for DeBoer

Kalen DeBoer has yet to officially name his starting quarterback, although Ty Simpson appears to be the frontrunner for the job. Still, the head coach is well aware that whoever takes the reins under center will need to be surrounded by a dynamic and explosive group of receivers — a key element in DeBoer’s offensive vision for the upcoming season.

Alabama HC Kalen DeBoer makes major statement on QB battle ahead of the 2025 NCAAF season

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“They all are just out there competing,” the HC said. “I like the mindset that is developing. I say developing because I think it’s something I think we’re capable of, but we’re far from there yet is to be the best receiving corps in the country. That’s not just one or two guys or three. That’s the whole unit. Whoever goes out there, we’re developing more confidence they can get the job done.

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“I like the versatility a lot of these guys have, inside to outside. We can move guys around. Much like we’ve been accustomed to over many years,” he finally concluded.

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