The Alabama Crimson Tide have had a week to forget. After legendary head coach Nick Saban retired, droves of players have left the program. However, when new head coach Kalen DeBoer came in, many wondered how many players he would bring with him. Former Washington Huskies offensive lineman Parker Brailsford announced he will be following his head coach to Tuscaloosa.
Brailsford started all 15 games for the Huskies this season at center. The offensive line as a whole won the Joe Moore Award, which highlights the nation’s top line. They were a huge part of why Michael Penix Jr. and the offense were able to put up huge numbers. He was ranked as the top interior offensive lineman in the portal and will protect another Heisman candidate in Jalen Milroe. Super senior Seth McLaughlin left for Ohio State, so they needed a reliable player to snap the ball.
The number of players entering the portal is slowing down. Former Washington players are starting to announce their commitment to the program. The Crimson Tide seem to be stabilizing. It isn’t going to be an easy season. Any time there is a coaching change, it takes some time for the new regime to make its mark. DeBoer has proven he can recruit high-level talent and put a championship-caliber team on the field.
Can Kalen DeBoer lead Alabama back to the College Football Playoff? If he can land more talent like Brailsford, they might have a chance.
