As the Alabama Crimson Tide gears up for the 2026 season, the focus is on filling the big shoes left by last year’s quarterback, Ty Simpson. But that’s not the only challenge on their plate.
The offensive line is undergoing a major transformation, with Michael Carroll standing as the lone returning starter. The rest of the line has been wide open for competition, but head coach Ryan Grubb has already settled one crucial spot: left tackle.
Enter Jackson Lloyd. Grubb’s confidence in Lloyd is crystal clear.
“He’s the guy,” Grubb stated, leaving no room for doubt about who will protect the new quarterback’s blind side. Lloyd, a standout from the class of 2025, was a top-tier recruit, ranked as the No. 3 player in California and No. 7 among offensive linemen nationally according to the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
With Lloyd locking down the left tackle position, attention now turns to who will be under center. The battle is heating up between Austin Mack and Keelon Russell, both vying to become Alabama’s next starting quarterback.
While there are still plenty of questions surrounding the Crimson Tide’s offense, securing the left tackle spot early in the offseason is a positive step forward. It’s a move that could set the tone for the rest of the line to fall into place.
As the team navigates these changes, Alabama remains a favorite in the SEC Championship odds, showing that despite the turnover, expectations are as high as ever.