Alabama will be without its key defensive communicator for the rest of the season, as Deontae Lawson has been sidelined due to a significant leg injury sustained in last week’s loss to Oklahoma. The Mobile, Alabama native served as the Crimson Tide’s green dot communicator, managing defensive calls and adjustments from his position at inside linebacker.
Lawson, a junior who played the “Stinger” role alongside Jihaad Campbell, was instrumental in organizing the defense. He recorded an impressive 76 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, four pass breakups, and a forced fumble this season. His ability to align teammates and ensure the defense was well-positioned contributed to Alabama’s success in generating 15 takeaways between the South Carolina and Mercer games.
At 6-foot-2 and 239 pounds, Lawson’s absence leaves a gap in leadership on the field. While Jihaad Campbell, also a junior, has the skills to handle communication, head coach Kane Wommack announced during Monday’s media availability that senior linebacker Justin Jefferson would step into the green dot role.
Jefferson, a former junior college standout, has tallied 45 tackles, five tackles for loss, two sacks, a pass breakup, and a forced fumble this season. Wommack expressed confidence in Jefferson’s ability to take on the responsibility.
“Justin Jefferson has been doing it all season as our No. 2 in that position,” Wommack said. “He has done a great job. Obviously, Jihaad can do it, but Jihaad plays so many different positions that it is hard for a guy moving around like that to handle green dot communication. We have two guys that can handle it, but Justin will take the majority of that responsibility this week.”
In addition to Jefferson, Alabama has depth at inside linebacker with Jeremiah Alexander, Justin Okoronkwo, and Cayden Jones available to provide support.
The Crimson Tide will look to regroup as they prepare for their annual rivalry showdown against Auburn in the Iron Bowl. The game kicks off Saturday at 2:30 p.m. CT on Saban Field.
