Alabama eyes rushing revival as freshman Trae'shawn Brown earns coach’s praise

The Alabama Crimson Tide entered the 2026 preseason with a backfield already thinned by injuries. Starting running back AK Dear was sidelined for the first month of the season, and backup EJ Crowell was dealing with injuries that limited his participation in fall camp. The losses left the Tide’s rushing attack vulnerable after a difficult 2025 campaign.

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Freshman Trae'shawn Brown, a three-star recruit from Huntsville, Texas, emerged as a potential answer to the depth issue. Listed at 5-foot-10 and 206 pounds, Brown impressed coaches during camp with his vision and quickness. If the rebuilt offensive line clicks and additional backs establish themselves early, Brown could become a key component of Alabama’s ground game.

Newsweek

Grubb’s comments underscored the coaching staff’s optimism that the young rusher can help “resurrect” the run game despite the ongoing injuries to Dear and Crowell. The coordinator indicated that Brown’s performance at camp provides the team with a viable option to sustain rushing production while the offensive line continues to develop cohesion.

Newsweek

• “Man, really, really good empty cut vision, meaning when he gets into a hole, blind cut defenders, he can see and feel that next guy,” — Ryan Grubb — Ryan Grubb

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