Kalen DeBoer and his coaching staff at the University of Alabama have been making strategic moves, utilizing both freshmen recruiting and the transfer portal to bolster the team’s depth in key areas. One position drawing attention is the offensive guard spot, especially after the departures of Jaeden Roberts, Kam Dewberry, and Geno VanDeMark. With Ryan Grubb naming the starting tackles for the Crimson Tide during spring practice, the focus now shifts to solidifying the guard positions.
Adrian Klemm, Alabama’s new offensive line coach, faces the challenge of assembling a cohesive unit capable of dominating opponents. With William Sanders sidelined due to injury, Ethan Fields and Casey Poe emerge as potential candidates, but the Tide has a variety of options to consider as they progress through spring training.
Mal Waldrep Jr.
Mal Waldrep is stepping into the right guard role early in spring practice. The redshirt freshman from Central-Phenix City (Ala.)
High School was a standout in the 2025 recruiting class. Despite playing in only two games last season, primarily on the scout team, Waldrep’s 6-foot-5, 322-pound frame, quick feet, and strong hands make him a formidable presence.
His ability to both run block and pass protect adds valuable versatility to the line.
Nick Brooks
With Will Sanders out, Nick Brooks is taking reps at left guard. Transferring from the University of Texas, Brooks is an imposing figure at 6-foot-7 and 339 pounds.
His size and wingspan are more reminiscent of a tackle, yet they offer Alabama a distinct advantage at guard, providing a clean pocket for quarterbacks Austin Mack or Keelon Russell. Brooks brings experience from five games at Texas, including SEC matchups against Oklahoma, Kentucky, and Mississippi State.
Ty Haywood
Originally projected to join Alabama in the 2025 recruiting class, Ty Haywood initially signed with Michigan before making his way to Tuscaloosa. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 312 pounds, Haywood’s previous experience in the Big Ten adds flexibility to his role. Coaches Ryan Grubb and Adrian Klemm are developing him as a guard, where he can potentially become a key player in both the run and passing game.
Michael Carroll
Michael Carroll’s versatility makes him a crucial asset for the Tide. Capable of playing anywhere on the offensive line, the former IMG Academy standout is the most seasoned player in the group despite being only a sophomore.
Carroll played in 14 games last season, starting six, and earned Freshman All-American and All-SEC Team honors. Notably, he didn’t allow a sack in three games at right tackle.
If needed, Carroll can shift to right guard, providing stability and allowing others to acclimate alongside him.
Alabama’s offensive line is shaping up to be a formidable unit, with a mix of young talent and experienced transfers ready to step up. As spring practice continues, the coaching staff’s strategic planning and player development will be crucial in setting the tone for the upcoming season.