Nick Saban reveals reason for Jahleel Billingsley's recent practice absences

Alabama TE Jahleel Billingsley was projected to have a bigger role in the Crimson Tide offense in 2021.

However, when fall practices started, Billingsley wasn’t taking the field with his teammates. A few days ago, coach Nick Saban addressed the absences, but didn’t provide any specifics.

After practice on Wednesday, Saban spoke with the media, saying Billingsley was back out at practice. Saban revealed that there were some COVID protocols Billingsley needed to clear before getting back on the field:

Nick Saban on Jahleel Billingsley: “We had some COVID protocols that we had to go through with him. He’s back out at practice. He needs to work his way back up the depth chart because he missed a little bit of time."

— Mike Rodak (@mikerodak) August 11, 2021

As Saban mentioned, Billingsley’s absence affected his status on the depth chart. Now, we’ll see if he can work his way back up to the starting tight end job ahead of Week 1.

In 2020, Billingsley recorded 18 catches for 287 yards and 3 touchdowns.