Since Nick Saban took over in 2007, Alabama has consistently boasted at least one cornerback projected as a first-round NFL draft pick, from Kareem Jackson to Marlon Humphrey to Terrion Arnold. However, with a completely revamped secondary for the 2024 season, Alabama fans will need to adjust to a new reality. While the new roster still brims with potential, it lacks the proven experience of past seasons and will be without Saban’s legendary coaching.
The defensive strategy under new coordinator Kane Wommack is expected to shift from Saban’s “pattern-match” coverage to a “vision-based” approach. This change could offer cornerbacks more chances to make plays on the ball, though it might also make them more vulnerable to short completions. As a result, the cornerback positions are up for grabs, and those who best adapt to Wommack’s system—and embrace a bit of a daring mindset—will secure the starting roles.
Here’s a look at the current cornerbacks:
– **Kool-Aid McKinstry**: After two standout seasons, McKinstry was drafted in the second round by the New Orleans Saints.
– **Terrion Arnold**: Unlike McKinstry, Arnold took a different route but quickly gained fan support, eventually being picked in the first round by the Detroit Lions.
– **Trey Amos**: A transfer from Louisiana, Amos saw some important playing time last year but was not a starter. He moved to Ole Miss after Saban’s retirement.
– **Earl Little Jr.**: Despite showing promise in offseasons, Little didn’t see much playtime and transferred to Florida State before Saban retired.
– **Dezz Ricks**: The highly-touted freshman didn’t see any game action and transferred to Texas A&M after Saban’s departure.
– **Antonio Kite**: Though mostly a reserve, Kite left for Auburn in what was seen as a notable move after Saban retired.
**Returning Players:**
– **Hurley**: After redshirting his freshman year, this former top-50 prospect is now the only returning cornerback. He has impressed the new coaching staff with his length and potential, though there’s been little recent news about his development.
**New Additions:**
– **Domani Jackson**: Once a top-5 recruit who initially chose USC, Jackson missed his freshman year due to injury but started for the Trojans in 2023. Despite a challenging team environment, he’s highly athletic and viewed as a top prospect with room to grow.
– **DaShawn Jones (6’0″/185, RJr)**: A veteran starter from Wake Forest, Jones brings experience and stability, though he hasn’t been an All-Conference player.
– Zabien Brown (6’0″/196, Fr)**: A 5-star freshman from Mater Dei High School, Brown surprised by starting alongside Domani Jackson in the A-Day game and is expected to start from day one. He’s one of the most polished DBs to come out of high school.
-Jaylen Mbakwe (5’11″/192, Fr)**: Another high 5-star recruit, Mbakwe is highly athletic and still developing as a player. His speed and potential make him a contender for various roles, including kick returner.
-Zavier Micney (6’3″/204, Fr)**: The final 5-star freshman, Micney is notable for his size and previous experience at safety. He’s transitioning to cornerback, though there hasn’t been much news about his progress during fall camp.
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