As the 2025–2026 college football season looms, excitement is bubbling in Tuscaloosa like never before. In what many are calling a symbolic passing of the torch, three of the most iconic Alabama Crimson Tide legends—John Hannah, DeVonta Smith, and Derrick Henry—have stepped out of the shadows of football history to declare their resounding support for this year’s Crimson Tide team.
This stunning display of unity across generations has electrified Alabama fans and brought a surge of energy to Kalen DeBoer’s program as he enters a pivotal second year as head coach. The triumvirate of Hannah, Smith, and Henry—each a titan in his own era—is now rallying behind the 2025 roster with a clear message: The standard is the standard. And the standard is excellence.
A Message From the Mountaintop
The announcement came via a joint video posted to the University of Alabama Football social media pages, a cinematic production filmed inside Bryant-Denny Stadium under the lights. With dramatic visuals of empty seats, championship banners, and locker room moments, the three legends took turns delivering heartfelt messages to the current Tide players and fans alike.
John Hannah, the rugged Hall of Fame lineman who paved the way for Alabama dominance in the 1970s, appeared first. Now in his 70s but still commanding respect, Hannah addressed the team from midfield.
“I bled for that jersey. I fought for every inch. And now, I see young men ready to carry on that legacy,” he said. “Make us proud. Fight like you belong. Because you do.”
DeVonta Smith, the “Slim Reaper” and 2020 Heisman winner, followed from the upper deck, gazing down at the field he once ruled.
“I came here to be great. Not just for myself—but for the ones who came before and after. You have the tools. You have the coaching. Now go earn your place in history.”
And finally, Derrick Henry, the NFL’s 2020 rushing champ and 2015 Heisman winner, stood in the weight room with intensity burning in his eyes.
“Alabama football isn’t about talk. It’s about work. Discipline. Brotherhood. You want to be remembered? Then leave no doubt.”
Reconnecting the Past with the Present
This powerful moment arrives at a crucial juncture. With Nick Saban’s retirement still casting a long shadow, many wondered how DeBoer would carry the pressure of leading the most dominant program in college football’s modern era. Though DeBoer has quickly proven himself a capable leader—guiding Alabama to a respectable 11-win season in 2024—questions remained about the identity and energy of the program moving forward.
But with three legends lending their voices to this year’s squad, it’s clear the Alabama family remains unbreakable.
DeBoer expressed his gratitude during a press conference following the release of the video:
“Having John, DeVonta, and Derrick speak out like this—it means everything. Our players know what they represent. These aren’t just guys in the rafters. They’re part of the heartbeat of this program. And their presence lifts us all.”
John Hannah: The Foundation of Grit
When discussing Crimson Tide legends, John Hannah is often referred to as the “Greatest Lineman of All Time.” A consensus All-American, he helped lead the Tide under Bear Bryant to SEC glory. Drafted fourth overall in 1973 by the New England Patriots, Hannah went on to have a Hall of Fame NFL career and was named to the NFL 100 All-Time Team.
His presence in the video is symbolic. Hannah represents the physical, trench-warfare mentality that Alabama football was built upon.
According to insiders, Hannah has been quietly advising the Tide’s offensive line unit during offseason workouts.
“John has been a mentor, especially to our young tackles,” said offensive line coach Christian Mahogany. “His attention to detail, the way he breaks down leverage, footwork—it’s invaluable.”
DeVonta Smith: The Spirit of Precision and Poise
No one expected DeVonta Smith to become the first wide receiver in nearly 30 years to win the Heisman Trophy, but in 2020, he put together a season for the ages. His 117 receptions, 1,856 yards, and 23 touchdowns were punctuated by his stunning national championship performance.
Smith has kept close ties with Tuscaloosa, often training with former teammates and returning during the offseason.
His public show of support reinforces the program’s “WRU” identity and offers mentorship to a new generation of receivers like Malachi Kendrick, Aiden Bryant, and Treyvon Beal.
“Smitty told us to play like every ball is the last one you’ll ever catch,” said Kendrick, a sophomore projected to start in 2025. “That sticks with you. We’re chasing greatness, not stats.”
Derrick Henry: The Symbol of Relentless Power
At 6’3″, 247 pounds, Derrick Henry redefined what it means to be a workhorse back. His 2,219 rushing yards in 2015 remain an SEC record, and his dominance carried Alabama to a national championship.
Henry’s leadership isn’t just motivational—it’s generational. Alabama’s current backfield, headlined by Kamarion Miller and freshman standout Tyshawn Ricks, is watching his every move.
Ricks recently said:
“Coach showed us Henry’s film after practice. Then Derrick sent us all a message in the group chat: ‘Keep your feet moving, always. No matter what.’ I got chills. That’s the king right there.”
Henry is also rumored to be attending Alabama’s fall camp in person for a weekend walkthrough—his first time doing so since turning pro.
The Current Roster: Ready to Answer the Call
With the legends delivering the message, it’s now up to Alabama’s 2025–26 roster to respond. And early signs suggest this team is more than ready.
Here are some of the players to watch:
- QB Jalen Milroe (Senior) – After a strong 2024 season, Milroe has matured into a steady dual-threat leader. His chemistry with his receivers and command of the playbook have improved dramatically.
- LB Quainton Judkins (Junior) – A versatile linebacker with 4.4 speed, Judkins is becoming the face of Alabama’s defense. His film sessions with Hannah reportedly inspired a revamped approach to pre-snap recognition.
- WR Malachi Kendrick (Sophomore) – Fast, fearless, and with hands like glue, Kendrick is emerging as a legit WR1. Expect Smith’s mentorship to show in his route-running precision.
- DE Zion Redd (Senior) – Alabama’s sack leader last year, Redd’s motor is relentless. He’s been compared to former Tide greats like Jonathan Allen.
- OL Samson Okunlola (Junior Transfer) – A late addition to the offensive line from Miami, Okunlola is expected to anchor the left tackle spot and bring much-needed physicality up front.
The DeBoer Effect and Program Direction
Kalen DeBoer inherited a program used to unparalleled success. The pressure is unrelenting, but his second season offers a unique chance to cement his legacy—not as Saban’s successor, but as the steward of a new Alabama era.
DeBoer’s offensive innovation, combined with traditional Bama toughness, has begun to reshape the identity of the team. And now, with legends backing the effort, he has the spiritual endorsement many believed was necessary to unify past and present.
“We don’t run from the past—we honor it,” DeBoer said. “And we use it to fuel the future.”
Fans and Recruits React
The reaction on social media was instant and overwhelming. The video amassed over 2 million views in its first six hours, with recruits, alumni, and media outlets all chiming in.
2026 five-star QB Trent McDaniel, who is strongly considering Alabama, tweeted:
“This is different. When legends talk, you listen. Bama just became scary.”
Former players like Julio Jones, Mark Ingram, and CJ Mosley shared the video, while SEC rivals like Georgia and LSU took notice of the rising energy.
ESPN’s Paul Finebaum called it:
“One of the most powerful statements I’ve ever seen from a college program. It’s not about branding. It’s about belonging. Alabama’s culture is alive and well.
