REPORTS: Full transcript from the Crimson Tide football head coach after Alabama’s final preseason scrimmage.

What Kalen DeBoer Said After Alabama’s Last Fall Scrimmage

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The Alabama Crimson Tide football team completed its second and final scrimmage of fall camp on Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium on Saturday. First-year head coach Kalen DeBoer took some time to meet with the media afterward to provide an update on the team, just two weeks ahead of the season opener.

DeBoer is set to address the press at noon. Live updates from the press conference will be shared as it happens, along with a complete transcript and video afterward.

Full Transcript of Kalen DeBoer’s Press Conference

Opening Statement

Good morning. We just wrapped up our second scrimmage, and in two weeks, we’ll be on the field for game day. The countdown is on!

I felt it was another productive scrimmage. We encountered various situations naturally, with a bit more focus on red zone and work inside the 10-yard line toward the end. It was a solid exchange between the offense and defense. The defense performed well against the run.

Early on, the offense managed a few explosive plays, but the defense also had some positive takeaways, including a tipped ball and a diving catch, which I loved to see. When opportunities arose, the defense capitalized.

On the offensive side, the receivers made some impressive catches despite strong defensive coverage. It was great to see them come down with those balls, and the defensive positioning was commendable as well.

Overall, the scrimmage was very physical—definitely the most physical we’ve seen since our arrival, including the spring game.

We came out relatively healthy, although a couple of guys might sit out a few practices this week. By the end of the week, we should have everyone ready to prepare for Week 1 against Western Kentucky.

We’re gradually getting some players back who have been dealing with minor injuries over the past couple of weeks. For instance, Jam Miller, as you all know, had a setback last week but could have played today if necessary. We’re being cautious and smart about it. Even though we had a few bumps today, we’re trending towards better health.

On Jaeden Roberts and the Offensive Line Overall…

Jaeden will definitely be able to play in Week 1; there’s no concern about him missing a game.

I believe this was our best effort in terms of managing pressure while also providing a pocket for the quarterbacks. There were times when they had enough time, but still instances where the defense managed to pressure the quarterbacks and disrupt drives, particularly on third down. With running backs like Jam sitting out, I felt our rotation held up well.

Our defensive line is doing an excellent job stopping the run.

Thoughts on the Cornerbacks

I thought the cornerbacks were consistently tight on their coverage throughout the day. They clearly understand their responsibilities and position well. While we can always find clips where they could improve, there were no major blown assignments. They are getting better every day; their motivation is high, and they’re aware that they’re being watched. I’m really proud of how they bring their best effort daily. They showed good physicality, making tackles and hitting players on routes, both for receivers and tight ends. Overall, it’s a promising group that’s continually growing and improving.

Right Tackle Battle

The right tackle position is still competitive. Until we get into game situations, we may not fully finalize who will take that role. Both players have their strengths, and neither has emerged as a liability. It’s about determining which one will be our starter. Both have earned significant reps, and we could reassess in a week if one player stands out more.

Who’s Returning Punts and Kicks

There are a couple of approaches to this. We can rely on veterans like Germie Bernard, who has experience as a returner and makes smart decisions, especially under pressure from coverage teams. We’re also looking to develop some younger players who may contribute this season and beyond. We want them to gain experience so that in critical moments, we can trust a second-string player if needed. For instance, Mbakwe has been consistent and could play a role, along with Ryan and K-Law, who has potential as a kick and punt returner. We’re keeping a larger group in the mix for now.

Working with Special Teams and Kickers/Punters

Burnip has had an outstanding camp. Early in spring, I saw his potential but wanted to see more consistency, which he achieved by the end of spring and has continued to demonstrate this camp. He’s been impressive with both distance and hang time, and he’s adept at pinning opponents inside the 10-yard line. Our long snapper, Kneeland, is a reliable veteran. Recently, our kickers have had the opportunity to practice in the stadium, which has helped with their depth perception and visualization. They’ve been consistent in practice, and I think we’re making progress in translating that performance to game settings.

On Zabien Brown Pushing the Veteran Cornerbacks

Zabien has been a noteworthy player since spring. Despite being young and recovering from an early injury, he’s shown remarkable consistency and toughness by fully participating in practices. I admire his determination to compete without missing opportunities. His experience from high-level high school football has helped him adjust well. DaShawn, with more snaps under his belt, is also performing well. Although our cornerback group is smaller this year, everyone is rising to the challenge, and Coach Linguist is doing a great job of instilling confidence while holding them to high standards every day.

Live Updates (Latest at the Top)

• DeBoer expressed pride in Zabien Brown for how he has managed his injury, noting he has a great mindset. He also acknowledged that DaShawn Jones has more playing experience. He mentioned that the cornerback group is one of the smallest he has seen.
• DeBoer praised James Burnip for having an exceptional fall camp. He noted Burnip’s consistency has improved since spring and that practicing in the stadium has benefited the entire kicking and punting unit.
• He named Germie Bernard as a kick and punt returner, citing his good decision-making, and mentioned they are also developing younger players like Jaylen Mbakwe, Ryan Williams, and Kendrick Law for return roles.
• The right tackle position is still being evaluated, with DeBoer stating that neither Formby nor Pritchett is a liability; it’s about determining who will be the starter.
• DeBoer recognized the cornerbacks for being consistently tight on coverage throughout the day.
• He noted that the defensive line is performing well against the run.
• Despite being injured, Jaeden Roberts is expected to play in Week 1.
• Jam Miller sat out the scrimmage after being banged up a week ago but could have played if necessary.
• DeBoer stated that this scrimmage was the most physical since his arrival at Alabama, yet the team emerged relatively healthy.
• He praised the competitiveness of the receivers and defensive backs when making catches.
• Kalen DeBoer mentioned the offense managed some explosive plays, but the defense also created turnovers.
• The team focused on red zone work during the second scrimmage.