Practice Report for Alabama Football’s Fifth Day of Fall Camp.
Day five of Alabama football’s 2025 fall camp unfolded under clear skies, intense heat, and even more intense competition. With the first scrimmage looming and positions still being solidified, the Crimson Tide took the practice field at the Thomas-Drew Practice Fields with a sense of urgency and focus that reflected the stakes. It was a high-energy session from start to finish, featuring full-padded drills, red-zone simulations, and special teams refinement. The coaching staff continued to ramp up physical demands while also focusing on situational football, giving the team valuable reps in game-like conditions. Each practice day thus far has revealed more about the makeup of this team under Kalen DeBoer’s leadership, and day five added further clarity to some critical position battles, personnel strengths, and the emerging culture within the program.
The quarterbacks again took center stage, with Jalen Milroe continuing to look like the team’s offensive leader. Milroe showcased improved ball placement, especially on intermediate crossing routes and deep sideline throws. One of his most impressive moments came during a two-minute drill when he connected on a 40-yard strike to Kobe Prentice, threading the ball between two defenders while rolling to his right. His poise and command of the offense are more visible with each passing day, and it’s evident that his understanding of the new system is growing. Behind him, redshirt freshman Dylan Lonergan and true freshman Keelon Russell both saw significant reps. Lonergan had a mixed day, flashing a strong arm but missing high on several throws in the red zone. Russell, meanwhile, looked more composed than earlier in the week, showing quicker decision-making and making plays with his legs when protections broke down. Although Milroe remains the clear QB1, the competition for the backup role is very much alive, and day five offered valuable reps that will be heavily evaluated on film.
Alabama’s offensive line unit spent extended periods working against the defensive front in both individual and full-team periods. One of the standout performers of the day was sophomore tackle Wilkin Formby, who handled multiple edge rushes from different blitz packages and held his ground consistently. Five-star freshman Darnell Hamilton, already earning some first-team reps, continued to impress with his explosiveness off the snap and ability to mirror defensive linemen. He pancaked a defensive end during an inside run drill, drawing audible reactions from players and coaches alike. Veteran guard Tyler Booker remains the emotional and physical anchor of the group, directing communication pre-snap and showing leadership during breaks in action. The group’s cohesion appears to be improving, especially in combo blocks and blitz pickups, which were points of emphasis during positional periods. Though still a work in progress, the offensive line’s physicality was a highlight of day five, signaling a potentially dominant unit once chemistry is fully established.
The defensive front seven responded in kind, with physicality of their own. Defensive coordinator Kane Wommack dialed up several pressure packages, and the defense showed the ability to disrupt passing lanes and contain the run effectively. Linebacker Deontae Lawson looked particularly sharp, reading plays quickly and delivering two emphatic hits during 11-on-11 drills. Freshman linebacker Zion Barnes continues to rise, earning second-team reps and even some situational work with the ones. His range and anticipation are rare for a player his age, and the coaching staff is clearly taking notice. Defensive lineman Tim Keenan III stood out with his gap control and ability to collapse the pocket from the interior. The depth and rotational strength of the defensive line were on display as well, with players like Jah-Marien Latham and James Smith rotating in and making plays. The defense forced three would-be sacks and a tipped pass that resulted in an interception during red-zone work, showing their ability to respond in pressure situations.
On the perimeter, Alabama’s wide receivers continued to build chemistry with the quarterbacks. Senior receiver Ja’Corey Brooks, finally healthy after dealing with injuries last season, looked like his old self. He hauled in several contested catches and made a highlight-reel diving grab during a sideline drill. Sophomore Kendrick Law remains a consistent performer, using his speed and quickness to create separation in tight windows. Malik Benson, another player who has made steady progress all week, caught two touchdowns during the team period and was vocal in encouraging his teammates between plays. The coaching staff has praised the overall effort and competition in the receiver room, which looks much deeper and more consistent than a year ago. Freshman Ryan Williams, the highly touted early enrollee, had a quiet day by his standards but continued to take first-team reps and show flashes of elite speed and route running. This unit may be the deepest on the team and could be a major strength if consistency holds.
At tight end, CJ Dippre continues to be a reliable target, particularly on check-downs and underneath routes. He caught three passes during situational drills and showed improved blocking technique in 9-on-7 periods. Freshman Caleb Odom also had a strong day, showcasing his athleticism in space and catching a red-zone touchdown on a fade route. The tight end room may not be flashy, but it’s proving to be a dependable asset in both the passing and running game. The balance between physicality and versatility in the group is exactly what the new offensive scheme relies on.
The secondary had a strong showing in coverage drills, particularly in the red zone. Cornerback Domani Jackson intercepted a pass during one-on-one work and nearly came down with another pick during a 7-on-7 drill. He’s gaining confidence and appears more fluid in his movements than earlier in camp. Safety Caleb Downs once again reminded everyone why he’s considered one of the top defensive players in the country. He blew up a screen play with a perfectly timed hit and was a vocal leader throughout practice, helping get younger defensive backs lined up correctly. Freshman corner Zabien Brown also turned heads, breaking up two passes in end-zone drills and showing excellent technique at the line of scrimmage. The communication and execution on the back end of the defense are clearly improving, and the emphasis on contesting every ball is beginning to show results.
Special teams periods were intense and methodical. Punter James Burnip showed great hangtime and placement during directional punt drills, pinning returners to the sideline repeatedly. The punt coverage team looked crisp, with gunners staying in lanes and maintaining discipline throughout reps. Kicker Will Reichard was automatic on all his attempts, including kicks from 45 and 52 yards out. The return game also showed flashes of explosiveness, with Kendrick Law and Ryan Williams both taking reps. Law had a 50-yard return during live kickoff work, showing great vision and acceleration. The staff continues to prioritize special teams, treating it with the same intensity and importance as offensive and defensive periods.
Off the field, the tone and culture of the program continue to evolve. Players stayed on the field after practice for extra work, and positional meetings were filled with animated coaching and player discussion. The staff’s attention to detail and positive reinforcement approach is resonating with players, creating an environment of accountability without fear. Coach DeBoer was visibly active in drills, moving from station to station, offering tips and encouragement, and maintaining high energy. There’s a clear sense of unity and direction that is beginning to take hold, and the older players are embracing leadership roles with confidence.
Injuries were minimal, with only a few players in limited participation roles. Wide receiver Emmanuel Henderson was seen in a non-contact jersey, still recovering from a minor hamstring issue. Defensive lineman Damon Payne Jr. was held out for precautionary reasons, though it’s not expected to be serious. Overall, the team’s health remains strong, and the training staff continues to manage workloads intelligently to avoid unnecessary setbacks.
As the first full week of camp nears its close, Alabama football appears to be sharpening its identity. The offense is fast and creative, with a quarterback playing with confidence and purpose. The defense is aggressive and physical, with young players emerging in key spots. The coaching staff is cohesive and communicative, setting a tone of excellence while also building trust with the players. Day five offered a clearer picture of who this team is becoming, and with the first scrimmage on the horizon, the competitive intensity is only expected to grow.
