Starting guard Jaeden Roberts’ status in doubt as Crimson Tide prepare for Florida State
Alabama enters the season ranked No. 8, but the Crimson Tide could be short-handed when they take the field against Florida State on Saturday. Veteran guard Jaeden Roberts, a fifth-year senior with 21 career starts, remains in concussion protocol after missing the last two weeks of practice. His absence would force head coach Kalen DeBoer to reshuffle the offensive line just days before one of the year’s biggest openers.
Roberts has been a fixture in Alabama’s front five, providing consistency in the trenches. Without him, the Tide may turn to senior Geno VanDeMark, who appeared in all 13 games last season and started once. DeBoer praised his versatility, saying VanDeMark has been a “Swiss army knife guy” who was already pushing for a starting role.
Texas A&M transfer Kam Dewberry is also in the mix, adding depth at guard. The coaching staff believes the unit is still a strength, anchored by four returning starters with at least 20 games of experience. Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb noted the group’s maturity: “A lot of starts with the guys on the field.”
Beyond Roberts, Alabama also lost running back Jam Miller to a dislocated collarbone. He’s expected back by late September for SEC play, but his absence puts added pressure on the backfield rotation.
Alabama’s margin for error is slim in a marquee Week 1 showdown. With the lights on and the stakes high, the Tide’s depth will be tested immediately.
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