After months of waiting, Alabama fans finally got an encouraging glimpse of one of the nation’s most highly touted freshmen. Five-star running back EJ Crowell entered fall camp at full strength, and head coach Kalen DeBoer’s early assessment suggests the freshman is already showing why he was considered one of the top recruits in the country.
Crowell’s first few months in Tuscaloosa were slowed by a soft-tissue injury that limited his participation during spring practice. While the setback delayed his development, it didn’t diminish the coaching staff’s belief in his potential. Now healthy, the former Jackson High School standout is making an immediate impression as Alabama begins preparations for the 2026 season.
Following Alabama’s opening practice, DeBoer praised the freshman’s performance.
“He did some nice things. It’s good to see him out there flying around,” DeBoer said, adding that there were moments that reminded the coaching staff of the explosive plays Crowell routinely produced during his remarkable high school career.
Those highlights are backed up by incredible production. Before arriving at Alabama, Crowell rushed for more than 2,000 yards and scored 28 touchdowns during his final high school season, helping establish himself as the No. 1 running back in his recruiting class after reclassifying. His combination of power, balance, and breakaway speed made him one of the most coveted offensive prospects in the nation.
DeBoer’s praise wasn’t limited to Crowell’s running ability. The Alabama coach also highlighted the freshman’s receiving skills and football intelligence, suggesting he could become a complete weapon in the Crimson Tide offense.
According to DeBoer, Crowell has shown reliable hands out of the backfield while quickly learning the offensive system. Those qualities could help him earn playing time sooner than many freshmen typically do, especially if he continues to perform consistently throughout fall camp.
The timing couldn’t be better for Alabama. The Crimson Tide are looking to re-establish a dominant rushing attack after an inconsistent ground game last season. Finding a dynamic playmaker at running back has been a major priority, and Crowell possesses the talent to help solve that problem.
Of course, expectations should remain measured. Crowell is still a true freshman adjusting to the speed and physicality of SEC football. Alabama also has a talented running back room, meaning he’ll need to earn his opportunities through continued strong performances in practice.
Still, the early signs are encouraging. Being fully healthy has allowed Crowell to display the athleticism and explosiveness that made him a five-star recruit, and his quick grasp of the offense has impressed the coaching staff.
If he continues progressing over the coming weeks, Crowell could carve out a significant role in Alabama’s offense as a freshman. Whether as an early-down runner, a receiving threat out of the backfield, or an explosive change-of-pace option, he appears well positioned to contribute immediately.
For Alabama, a healthy EJ Crowell may be exactly what the offense needs—a talented young playmaker capable of making an impact from the moment the 2026 season begins.
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