LT Overton is back-and just in time for Alabama’s biggest game of the season.
As the Crimson Tide gears up for its College Football Playoff quarterfinal clash against Indiana in the 2026 Rose Bowl, Overton was back in full pads and front-and-center during defensive line drills. That’s a welcome sight for a unit that’s missed his presence off the edge.
Overton sat out both the SEC Championship loss to Georgia and Alabama’s CFP first-round win over Oklahoma. But now, with the stakes rising and a trip to the semifinals on the line, the Tide gets one of its most disruptive defenders back in the mix.
Defensive coordinator Kane Wommack couldn’t hide his excitement.
“That’s an awesome blessing just for LT,” Wommack said. “It’s awesome for us.
For him, he obviously has to have a good couple of days here, but is certainly on track. And to have him in this game-his experience, his excitement of wanting to get back out on the field and go compete with his teammates.
He’s an ultimate competitor.”
Wommack didn’t go into detail about what kept Overton sidelined, but made it clear the junior defensive end has done everything right to stay ready. According to Wommack, Overton “looks great right now” and has “done a really good job of staying in shape.”
That’s good news for a defense that thrives on edge pressure-and Overton brings it in bunches. He’s second on the team with four sacks, and his 35 total tackles and six tackles-for-loss show he’s not just a pass-rush specialist-he’s a playmaker.
“When you have a difference maker like that off the edge, it certainly changes your defense,” Wommack said.
Overton’s return couldn’t come at a better time. Indiana’s offense has been efficient all year, and Alabama will need every bit of firepower to slow them down. Overton’s ability to collapse the pocket and force quarterbacks off-script could be a game-changer.
Beyond the Rose Bowl, Overton is also one of several Alabama standouts set to play in the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl in Mobile. He’ll be joined by wide receiver Germie Bernard, tight end Josh Cuevas, running back Jam Miller, linebackers Deontae Lawson and Justin Jefferson, and defensive lineman Tim Keenan III. That kind of representation underscores the depth and talent Alabama has developed across the board.
But first things first: the Rose Bowl. Alabama and Indiana kick off Thursday, Jan. 1, at 3:10 p.m.
CT. With Overton back in the fold, the Tide’s defense is getting a key piece of its identity back-just when it matters most.