Kalen DeBoer’s Alabama Crimson Tide are gearing up to kick off the 2024 season against the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers.

Ahead of that matchup, DeBoer spoke with the media and provided an injury update on 3 crucial players. Running back Jam Miller, offensive lineman Jaeden Roberts and linebacker Jeremiah Alexander are all expected to contribute to the team in 2024, but all have been hampered by injuries recently.

DeBoer had positive news on 2 of those 3 players.

“Jaeden and Jam, I would expect to practice and be ready to go,” DeBoer said Monday. “[Jeremiah], would not probably expect him. You guys have seen him and just know the timeline. He’ll be close. He’ll be close.”

Roberts projects to start at left guard, so having the redshirt junior healthy is crucial. Miller figures to see plenty of snaps as the No. 2 running back on the team behind Justice Haynes.

Alexander is expected to be a reserve inside linebacker this fall after moving to that position from outside linebacker this offseason. Based on what DeBoer said, it seems likely Miller and Roberts suit up, with Alexander being a bigger question mark for the opener.

In 2023, Miller ran 41 times for 201 yards and 1 touchdown. Alexander collected 3 tackles in a reserve role, and Roberts started in 8 games. If Miller can’t go in the opener, expect to see work from Richard Young. Elijah Pritchett and Geno VanDeMark are options to help on the interior if Roberts can’t go.

Of course, the Tide would hope they wouldn’t even need those players to beat Western Kentucky. The teams will kick off from Tuscaloosa on Saturday, Aug. 31.

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