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SEC Football: Top 10 players to watch this spring

By Jerran Anderson

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick (29) and linebacker Tim Williams (56) react after a fumble recovery during the first quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick (29) and linebacker Tim Williams (56) react after a fumble recovery during the first quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick (29) and linebacker Tim Williams (56) react after a fumble recovery during the first quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick (29) and linebacker Tim Williams (56) react after a fumble recovery during the first quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

When safety Eddie Jackson went down last season with a broken leg, Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick stepped up without a hitch.

Fitzpatrick finished the season as an Associated Press All-American and a first team All-SEC selection for his play. He recorded 66 total tackles (42 solo, 24 assisted), 6 interceptions, 5.5 tackles for loss, seven pass breakups, two interception returns for touchdowns and a fumble recovery in 2016.

Fitzpatrick was all over the field on the Alabama defense last season and this season, fans could see more of the same. He was first in the SEC in interceptions and interception return yards (186). His two interception returns for touchdowns also led the conference as well. He picked the ball off three times against Arkansas, including one for a touchdown in a 49-30 victory.

The rising junior should be the anchor in the Crimson Tide secondary in 2017. With a lot of holes to replace on the defensive line and at linebacker and safety, Fitzpatrick could be one of the leaders on defense next season.

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