Previewing Alabama’s defensive front, Tim Keenan III says, “Good Luck to the Offensive Line.”

Alabama’s defensive front has long been a cornerstone of its football dominance, consistently producing NFL-caliber talent and stifling opposing offenses. As we look ahead to the 2025 season, the Crimson Tide’s defensive line, anchored by standout players like Tim Keenan III, is poised to be a formidable force. Keenan’s confident assertion, “Good luck to the offensive line,” encapsulates the unit’s strength and depth.

Tim Keenan III: The Anchor in the Trenches

Tim Keenan III, a redshirt senior from Birmingham, Alabama, has been a pivotal presence on the defensive line since his arrival at the Capstone. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 325 pounds, Keenan combines size with agility, making him a disruptive force in the interior.

In the 2024 season, Keenan’s performance was nothing short of stellar. He played in all 13 games, starting 12, and amassed 40 tackles, including 7.5 for loss (-26 yards) and 2.5 sacks (-16 yards). His ability to penetrate offensive lines and disrupt plays was evident, particularly in the game against South Florida, where he recorded a career-high nine tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. This standout performance earned him the SEC Defensive Lineman of the Week honors.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Keenan has demonstrated a commitment to community service. He was selected to the 2024 SEC Community Service Team, having logged nearly triple-digit volunteer hours in Tuscaloosa and his hometown of Birmingham. His involvement ranges from participating in Habitat for Humanity builds to hosting free youth football clinics.

Supporting Cast: Depth and Talent Across the Line

The strength of Alabama’s defensive front lies not only in its star players but also in its depth. Several key contributors bolster the line, ensuring a relentless pass rush and stout run defense.

• Tim Smith: A graduate student entering his fifth year, Smith has been a consistent performer. In 2023, he posted career-high numbers with 31 tackles and 2.0 sacks. Over 51 career games, he has accumulated 89 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks, showcasing his experience and reliability.

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• Jaheim Oatis: After generating buzz during his true freshman season in 2022, Oatis continued his productive play into 2023. He dropped weight heading into the season, playing much slimmer while remaining effective. Oatis notched 26 tackles and two pass breakups, playing starter’s reps in each of his first two seasons. His development trajectory suggests an even more impactful role in the upcoming season.

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• James Smith: A five-star recruit from the 2023 class, Smith appeared in nine games as a true freshman. While his statistical impact was modest, his ability to push into a rotation filled with established players speaks volumes about his potential. His growth will be pivotal for the Tide’s defensive line depth.

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• Damon Payne: A redshirt junior, Payne has seen a steadily increasing role. He appeared in every game for Alabama in 2023, making 16 tackles in 19 career games with 1.5 tackles for loss. His continued development adds valuable depth to the defensive front.

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• Jah-Marien Latham: A redshirt senior, Latham has become a fixture in the rotation over the past two years. He played in every game for Alabama in 2023, specializing in pass rush situations. He finished the year with eight tackles and 1.5 sacks, contributing significantly on third-down defenses.

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New Additions: Reinforcing the Front

Alabama’s defensive line has been further bolstered by strategic acquisitions from the transfer portal. Notably, the addition of former Texas A&M defensive lineman LT Overton exemplifies the rich getting richer. Overton, a five-star recruit in the class of 2022, registered 48 tackles and 3.0 tackles for loss in two seasons with the Aggies. His experience and high ceiling make him a valuable asset for the Crimson Tide.

Coaching and Scheme: Maximizing Potential

Under the guidance of defensive coordinator Kane Wommack, Alabama’s defensive line has thrived. Wommack’s emphasis on fundamentals and aggressive play has allowed players like Keenan to flourish. Following Keenan’s standout performance against USF, Wommack praised his hand placement, block recognition, and physicality, highlighting the lineman’s growth and dedication.

The defensive scheme leverages the depth and versatility of the line, allowing for constant rotation and fresh legs. This approach ensures relentless pressure on opposing offenses, making it challenging for them to establish rhythm or exploit weaknesses.

Outlook for the 2025 Season

With a blend of seasoned veterans, emerging talents, and strategic additions, Alabama’s defensive front is set to be one of the nation’s best. The depth chart is stacked with players capable of making significant impacts, ensuring that the Crimson Tide can adapt to various offensive schemes and in-game situations.

Offensive lines facing Alabama in the upcoming season will need to prepare meticulously. The combination of size, speed, experience, and coaching makes the Tide’s defensive front a daunting challenge. As Tim Keenan III aptly put it, “Good luck to the offensive line.”