Alabama’s linebackers undergo full overhaul ahead of 2026 season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 1:22 PM
Last updated Aug 22, 2026

The Alabama Crimson Tide linebacking corps will see a complete turnover entering the 2026 season following the departure of key players like Deontae Lawson and Justin Jefferson. Newcomer Caleb Woodson, a senior and multi-year starter, is expected to lead the unit, with Luke Metz emerging as a strong contender to join him. Other candidates include Reese, Jones, Sanders, and Johnson, all vying for starting spots as fall camp progresses. The team's linebacker decisions will significantly impact their defensive strategy for the upcoming season.
- •Bama loses all main linebackers from 2025 season.
- •Caleb Woodson is expected to lead the new linebacker group.
- •Luke Metz is emerging as a top contender for a starting role.
- •Other competitors for linebacker spots include Reese and Sanders.
- •The linebacker competition is ongoing as fall camp progresses.
- 1:22 PMYahoo Sports — 2026 Alabama Fall Football Preview: Linebackers
"It’s total turnover up the middle for the Tide. Could that wind up being a good thing?
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