Alabama HC Kalen DeBoer names one factor that could become a threat to the team's natty dreams in 2024

Following Nick Saban's exit from the Crimson Tide after 17 years, Alabama had its first scrimmage under Kalen DeBoer at the Bryant Denny Stadium on Saturday morning. The scrimmage was behind closed doors though.

DeBoer later answered several questions in the press conference about the team's various aspects for the upcoming season. Of many things, he spoke of the team's progress with penalties, fall camp injuries and the defensive line.

When asked about his biggest concern for the upcoming season, DeBoer said:

"Probably just staying healthy, you know? Again, I feel good about where we’re at. This will be our biggest scrimmage. This will be the most plays that we run. Next week we’ll have a scrimmage too, but it won’t be quite as many, it’ll be solid. But just being healthy."

"We need all the reps. We have some veterans, there’s no doubt about it, but we certainly have a lot of young guys that need to continue to develop and that are important. If they’re not in the ones, they’re definitely in the two rotation, so those reps are invaluable for those guys, not just for them but also the trust that it takes as a whole unit.”

A look at Kalen DeBoer's recruiting trail at Alabama

One of the biggest concerns regarding Kalen DeBoer after he joined Alabama was whether he could recruit, especially in the South. However, he has brushed off those concerns since his arrival by landing many talent powerhouses.

The Crimson Tide signed one of the best quarterbacks in the 2025 class: 5-star Keelon Russell. They also recruited 5-star offensive tackle Ty Haywood, receiver Caleb Cunningham, who was expected to go to Auburn but chose to stay at Alabama, and cornerback Dijon Lee Jr. It's safe to say DeBoer had a successful summer in recruiting.

The players have appreciated DeBoer's involvement in the recruiting process. He was seen cheering for 5-star OT Micah DeBose when he pledged his commitment to Alabama.

So will DeBoer be able to retain all the talent he's recruiting? Only time will tell. For now, the Alabama coach is making every effort to further carry Nick Saban's success with the program.