Kalen DeBoer Faces Crucial 2026 Season Amid Alabama Football Challenges

As the 2026 college football season creeps closer, Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer sits at a crossroads. He’s following the legendary Nick Saban, and, well, expectations don’t get much higher than that.

A tough loss in the Rose Bowl and some noticeable swings-and-misses in the transfer portal have put DeBoer’s early run under a harsh spotlight. Even with a decent 20-8 record since taking over, the pressure isn’t letting up—people want results that fit Alabama’s history.

Former players and current athletes have been pretty vocal in their support. Still, let’s be honest, the coming season could make or break DeBoer’s future in Tuscaloosa.

Challenges and Expectations for Kalen DeBoer

Alabama football is basically a synonym for winning. DeBoer walked into a program with sky-high standards after leading Washington to the national title game in 2023.

But, unsurprisingly, the transition hasn’t been smooth. The 2026 season is looming as a real test, with DeBoer having to navigate all the noise from fans who expect nothing short of greatness.

Rose Bowl Loss and Transfer Portal Struggles

The Rose Bowl loss in the College Football Playoff stung, and it really set the tone for a rocky offseason. In the transfer portal, Alabama lost more big names than it brought in.

Six of the top 80 transfers in the 2026 cycle were former Crimson Tide players. Losing standout wideout Isaiah Horton was tough to swallow.

Player Support and Leadership

Through the criticism, DeBoer’s players have had his back. Josh Cuevas, who followed DeBoer from Washington, has been especially vocal about patience and trusting the process.

Cuevas talked up DeBoer’s knack for turning teams into contenders. He’s urging fans to stick with the vision, and honestly, you have to respect that loyalty.

Deontae Lawson’s Endorsement

Deontae Lawson, a multi-year starter and outgoing senior, echoed those thoughts. At a press conference in Pasadena, Lawson defended DeBoer, pointing to his commitment to improvement and how much he cares about the team.

Lawson seems convinced that, in time, DeBoer’s legacy will be a good one at Alabama.

Roster Overhaul and Positional Challenges

This year, Alabama’s roster is getting a major shake-up, especially on both lines. Losing key players while bringing in fresh faces creates a strange mix of challenge and opportunity.

Offensive Line Struggles

The offensive line was a problem last season—most pressures in the SEC, fourth-most sacks. Then offensive line coach Chris Kapilovic left after just two seasons, which says a lot.

Now, sophomore tackle Michael Carroll is the lone returning starter. He’ll be joined by a handful of transfer additions and returning players who are itching for a shot.

Defensive Line Overhaul

The defensive line’s in flux too. All three starters from last season are gone, plus three main backups left via the portal.

Still, DeBoer sounds optimistic. Transfers from USC, Oregon, Mississippi State, and Washington, along with five freshmen, bring a weird but intriguing mix of experience and raw talent.

Recruiting and NIL Challenges

Recruiting is always huge at Alabama, but lately, the transfer portal has exposed some tough realities. The school’s NIL resources have been a sore spot, with Alabama trailing behind programs you’d expect it to outpace.

Back in December 2024, athletic director Greg Byrne basically pleaded with fans to support fundraising if Alabama wants to stay competitive in the NIL era.

Key Transfer Misses

Alabama’s transfer class landed at 16th nationally, according to 247Sports. That’s not terrible, but it’s not what fans expect either.

Big misses included running back Hollywood Smothers, who flipped to Texas, and offensive tackle Jacarrius Peak, who went with South Carolina. Even former Oregon edge Blake Purchase canceled his visit and signed with Ole Miss instead. Ouch.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season

With spring practice on the horizon, DeBoer has to figure out how the new faces will fit. Integrating all these changes is going to be a real test of his leadership.

Spring Practice and Team Chemistry

Spring practice should give DeBoer a chance to see if the new additions actually click with the rest of the squad. Building chemistry is always tricky, but it’s absolutely crucial this year.

The schedule isn’t doing Alabama any favors—three opponents are already in CBS Sports’ way-too-early top 25. The path is tough, but hey, when has that ever scared Alabama?

Key Positions to Watch

Plenty of positions will be under the microscope. With Ty Simpson off to the NFL, the quarterback spot is a big question mark.

The backfield and defense are full of new faces too. If DeBoer can develop this group and get them to gel, Alabama might just surprise some people.

Conclusion

Kalen DeBoer’s time at Alabama has hit a pretty crucial stage. Expectations are sky-high, and the road ahead looks anything but easy.

The 2026 season could really shape how folks remember his coaching run. There are obstacles, sure, but DeBoer seems to have earned a lot of trust from his players.

He’s still hopeful about what’s next. Alabama’s juggling roster changes, recruiting headaches, and all the NIL chaos—it’s a lot.

Honestly, whether this works out might just come down to how well DeBoer can rally his team and keep everyone believing.

For more in-depth coverage and analysis, visit CBS Sports.