The Alabama Crimson Tide football program is full of underrated players with elite potential.
Underrated football players often face significant challenges when competing at a top program like the University of Alabama. In a team brimming with elite talent and future NFL stars, these players can easily be overshadowed despite their considerable skills and contributions. The relentless competition for playing time and recognition means that only a select few capture the spotlight. These underrated players often work just as hard, if not harder, to earn their place on the field.
Their efforts are crucial to the program’s success, yet they frequently go unnoticed in the shadow of more celebrated teammates. Recognizing and appreciating these unsung heroes is essential. Their contributions often make a substantial difference in the team’s overall performance. These three Alabama football players are being under appreciated, but could be stars in 2024.
Running Back – Jamarion Miller
Jamarion “Jam” Miller could have his breakout season this year. However, he may also split time with sophomore running back Justice Haynes. Miller has shown elusiveness with his opportunities. Plus, he has a knack for getting yards after contact. In fact, 52.8 percent of his 424 yards with the Crimson Tide have came from after contact. His agility allows him to navigate through tight defenses, while his strength and balance enable him to power through tackles extending plays.
Miller might be able to expose defenses more because his running mate Haynes may get the early work. If Haynes is able to tire down the defenses then it may allow Miller to bust out the big plays. Last season, Miller saw little work in the passing game catching 67 percent of his targets. If used as a third-down back his agility and elusiveness could shine more. Miller’s unique talents could emerge as a crucial component of the Crimson Tide’s rushing attack, potentially leading to a standout season.
Unfortunately playing at a program like Alabama as a true freshman getting on the field can come late in blowouts
Miller showed well appearing in 13 GMS averaging 6.8 YPC on limited touches
Optimistic Bama finds more ways to feature Jam this seasonpic.twitter.com/JjcC3mZPCm
— Joe O’Leary (@TheHQNerd) July 23, 2023
Wide Receiver – Kendrick Law
Kendrick Law is a crisp route runner with exceptional field awareness. These traits could allow him to emerge as a top receiver for the Crimson Tide. His precise routes create separation from defenders, giving him the opportunity to make key receptions. Law is a smooth patient runner that reads his blocks.
In two seasons with Alabama, Law caught 76.6 percent of his targets. Law’s keen sense of his surroundings allows him to find soft spots in coverage and make plays anywhere on the field. Plus, once the ball is in his hands he makes the necessary adjustments with his feet to make big plays.
Law can be dangerous weapon in the middle of the field. In fact, 72.6 percent of his yards came from after the catch. As he gains experience and rapport with his quarterback, his ability to execute plays and turn short gains into substantial yardage will be instrumental in Alabama’s offensive success.
Kendrick Law in 2024 📈📈📈 pic.twitter.com/9haBn6qM8q
— Sidelines – Bama (@SSN_Alabama) April 18, 2024
Linebacker – Deontae Lawson
When majority of people talk about the top linebackers in the class of 2025, they skip over talking about Deontae Lawson. Maybe it is from the long list of linebackers that overshadowed him in previous seasons. However, this year is his season to be one of the defensive stalwarts for the Crimson Tide defense.
Lawson is a downhill threat that attacks the gaps with ferocity. His awareness and ball pursuit allow him to close those gaps effectively. Last season alone he had 46 run stops. Plus, he got after the quarterback with 21 total pressures, turning four into sacks.
Lawson can be overly aggressive in his pursuits, as many linebackers are, which causes him to have a miss tackle rate of 14.6 percent. Additionally, he does need to work on his coverage skills too.
If he is able to do this during the 2024 season then he will become a complete linebacker. However, right now if we are just talking on the ball down field closers then Lawson should be at the top of the discussion. His leadership and ferocious style of play can take the Crimson Tide defense to new heights.
“Roll with us or get rolled over!”
roll with us or get rolled over 🤷🏾♂️ DOA pic.twitter.com/2Wk3MxJi1t
— Deontae Lawson (@Deontae_0) January 19, 2024
The SEC is filled with underrated players. The Alabama Crimson Tide are set to begin a new era, a post Nick Saban era. Every member of the Crimson Tide team will need to step up to ensure the Alabama legacy lives on. These three athletes are some of their veterans that should step into the leadership role, and should have big expectations into the 2024 season.
SC Romero
Hello, I'm SC Romero, a fantasy football enthusiast for more than a decade. I personally enjoy the IDP format and the devy world! You can find me on X @ThePPRShow sharing all my knowledge to help you win your leagues! I hope to bring new insight to you through League Winners expanding your knowledge on the devy community! Have a question? Just ask, I'm here for you.