Alabama’s defense is a closer away from being an elite unit.
In its 17-year run under Nick Saban, the Crimson Tide popped out numerous generational talents on defense that struck fear in the heart of opponents. Legendary names such as Marcell Dareus, Terrence Cody, Rolando McClain, Damion Sqaure, A’Shawn Robinson, Jarran Reed, Da’Ron Payne, Quinnen Williams, Christian Barmore, Reuben Foster, Rashaan Evans, Will Anderson Jr., and Dallas Turner among others were a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.
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Saban got Qua Russaw, a former five-star, in 2023 recruiting class and coached him for a season, but now the Montgomery (Ala.) native has to develop into a closer with Kalen DeBoer, Kane Wommack, and this coaching staff. He was banged up at times in 2024, yet he showed flashes of how good he can be when healthy. Russaw totaled 36 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, a sack, two quarterback hurries, a forced fumble, and an interception. Greg McElroy, a former Tide quarterback, has a podcast called “Always College Football.” The 2009 BCS National Champion sees Russaw as someone that can have a monster year in the coming fall.
“Qua Russaw, he’s the guy that I think has a chance to take over the game,” McElroy said. “Look, he was a little bit banged up at times last year, got a little banged up in the Wisconsin game. But there were so many moments throughout the year in which you saw those flashes. Now, if he can put it all together in his redshirt sophomore year, he’s got All-SEC and All-American potential for sure.”
Russaw does have All-American potential, and he dropped 10 pounds this offseason to get faster. The 6-foot-2, 241-pounder can convert speed to power and put on a clinic throughout spring practice. Alabama needs for him to be healthy all year because it will produce results.
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Fall camp is coming soon for the Tide and Russaw looks to be ready.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and writer for The Bama Standard. You can follow him on X via @CoachingMSmith.
