Alabama Football: Projecting Tide’s 2-deep depth chart for 2019
By Dakota Cox
Linebacker
Starting inside linebackers: Dylan Moses, Joshua McMillon
Backups: Shane Lee, Markail Benton/Ale Kaho
The only guaranteed starter at inside linebacker is Dylan Moses. After playing alongside Mack Wilson, it became clear that Moses had what takes to be an elite Alabama linebacker. He has the intelligence, speed, and strength to be the quarterback of this defense and one of the best defensive players in the country in 2019.
Past Moses, I’m giving McMillon the nod to start, although it could be any player on this list. Ale Kaho is an X-factor who hasn’t lived up to the hype just yet, and Shane Lee has shown a lot of promise despite just going into his freshman year.
Starting SAM linebacker: Terrell Lewis
Backup: Eyabi Anoma
After a devastating injury to Terrell Lewis last year, it is finally time for him to show the country what he can do. He will play a huge role as the Tide have to replace Christian Miller. Lewis has the potential to reach double-digit sacks this year if he remains healthy. Backing him up will be Eyabi Anoma, another star recruit who has been waiting his turn to star with the Tide.
Starting JACK linebacker: Anfernee Jennings
Backup: Chris Allen
Anfernee Jennings was a lost piece of the Tide defense last year. While everyone wanted to focus on Deionte Thompson, Quinnen Williams, and other stars, Jennings quietly had a great year. He has the highest number of sacks for a returning player, and he led the team in pass deflections in 2018. Christopher Allen was out for the year last season, but he will add great depth to the defensive line for the Tide.