Roydell Williams Back from Injury, Saban Pleased with Running Backs
TUSCALOOSA, Ala— Earlier this spring, Nick Saban listed senior running back Roydell Williams as one of the players who would be missing some time this spring with an undisclosed injury.
But Williams is back practicing with the team and participated in the Crimson Tide's first scrimmage of the spring Friday afternoon inside Bryant-Denny Stadium.
Despite losing its top running back from a year ago with Jahmyr Gibbs heading off to the NFL draft, Saban seemed confident in this year's group that has a mix of veterans and new faces in seniors Jase McClellan and Williams alongside sophomore Jam Miller and freshman early enrollee Justice Haynes
"All four guys have had really, really good springs," Saban said after Friday's scrimmage. "They're all very productive players. All of those guys can contribute to the team in some ways."
Williams and McClellan bring back the most experience at the position, but both have had to deal with injuries during their careers at Alabama. Both suffered kneww injuries in the 2021 season before returning last year.
Last season, McClellan was the No. 2 back behind Gibbs and had 655 yards and seven touchdowns on the ground with another 174 yards and three touchdowns through the air. Williams became Alabama's power back late in the season and had 250 yards and four touchdowns.
Miller got limited time as a freshman last season, appearing in five games. Haynes has received a lot of hype throughout the spring and is making an early impression. With questions at quarterback, the running backs could be a stabilizing force on the offense this season.
"As long as we can stay healthy at that position, I don’t think that’s an issue on our team," Saban said about the running backs.
See also:
Saban Praises Alabama Offense in First Scrimmage: 'Both Quarterbacks Played Really, Really Well'
