In a post-practice meeting with reporters, Alabama coach Nick Saban outlined on Monday how the Crimson Tide acclimated to their first workout in pads.

About the outside linebackers, Saban said, “I’m impressed with all the young guys we have. All four of those guys have shown some promise in what they can do. … I think a couple of them are going to add depth to our team.”

Saban specifically mentioned pass rush as an area they may be able to help with, according to Charlie Potter and James Ogletree.

About playing during a pandemic, Cecil Hurt reported that Saban added, “I think more than ever, the depth of your team is critical because we (may) have more issues than we’ve had in the past.”

Early in the preseason, the talk about Alabama’s sub-par defensive effort has been a topic of conversation. Saban touched on last year’s team on Monday.

“I’m not pleased with the way we played last year. … I do not think that last year’s team reflected the culture of what has made this program as successful as it has been.”

At cornerback, Saban spoke about Josh Jobe, said Jobe has learned to control his emotions.

“I think he’s aware and he’s played with a lot more poise and he’s meet a lot more consistent,” the coach said.