For the first time in over 40 years, Alabama football is entering the season without a single preseason first-team All-SEC defensive selection, as announced during the 2025 SEC Media Days. Given the program’s storied tradition and dominance on defense—particularly under former head coach Nick Saban—this surprising development has raised eyebrows across the college football world. The question now is simple: Should Alabama fans be worried?
A Streak Broken, A Standard Challenged
Let’s not understate the significance of the streak that has come to an end. Alabama has been a factory for elite defensive talent for decades. From names like Rolando McClain and Dont’a Hightower to more recent stars such as Jonathan Allen, Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Will Anderson Jr., the Crimson Tide has consistently churned out All-SEC and All-American defenders who later became NFL standouts.
To see not one of their current defensive players recognized as a first-team preseason selection is jarring. It’s more than just a snub—it’s an indication that the rest of the conference, at least on paper, no longer views Alabama’s defense as the undisputed gold standard.
A New Era with New Questions
This offseason marks a transition period for Alabama. With Kalen DeBoer now at the helm after Nick Saban’s retirement, fans knew some changes were inevitable. DeBoer, known more for his offensive acumen than defensive dominance, inherits a team filled with talent but also one in flux. Defensive coordinator Kane Wommack has taken over the reins, and while he has a strong track record, it remains to be seen how quickly his system will gel with Alabama’s current personnel.
Some of the lack of preseason recognition may stem from uncertainty. There’s no clear-cut superstar or returning All-American on this year’s defense. Instead, Alabama is banking on a collective unit to step up—players like Deontae Lawson at linebacker or Kool-Aid McKinstry in the secondary may have been considered for second- or third-team nods, but the explosive impact that voters look for in first-team selections just hasn’t materialized—yet.
Talent Is Still There
It’s important to keep this in perspective: preseason awards are projections, not predictions. Every year, players emerge who weren’t even on the radar in July but end up dominating by December. Alabama’s recruiting classes have been consistently ranked among the best in the country, meaning the raw talent is certainly there. It may simply be that the players who will ultimately lead this defense haven’t had their breakout moments—yet.
Additionally, Alabama’s defensive depth chart is filled with underclassmen and new starters who have yet to make their mark. That’s both a concern and an opportunity. The lack of household names doesn’t mean a lack of ability; it could just signal that this is a team still figuring out its identity on defense.
Should Fans Panic?
The short answer is no—not yet. While the end of Alabama’s All-SEC defensive streak is notable and even symbolic, it doesn’t necessarily mean the Tide is in trouble. There’s always an adjustment period when a legendary coach retires, and what matters most is how the team performs once the games begin.
If by midseason Alabama’s defense is giving up big plays, struggling to stop the run, and failing to create turnovers, then it may be time to hit the panic button. But for now, the lack of preseason accolades may just be a reflection of the unknowns surrounding this year’s roster—not a verdict on their actual ability.
Final Thoughts
Alabama football fans are used to a certain level of dominance, especially on defense. Seeing the Tide shut out of preseason first-team All-SEC defensive honors for the first time in over four decades is a reminder that even dynasties evolve—and sometimes stumble. But with a new coaching staff, fresh energy, and a group of hungry players ready to prove themselves, this could just be the calm before a different kind of storm. One thing is for sure: never count Alabama out.