Alabama football will need to replace some production in the pass rush this season. The team’s two leading sack leaders, linebacker Jihaad Campbell and Que Robinson are both off to the NFL.

Alabama’s defense will have the benefit of continuity entering head coach Kalen DeBoer and defensive coordinator Kane Wommack’s second season. During his appearance at SEC media days on Wednesday, DeBoer was asked how UA will fill the voids, especially the one left by Campbell, who went in the first round of the NFL Draft to the Philadelphia Eagles.

“Jihaad, the versatility he brought, that’s why he was a high-end draft pick,” DeBoer said. “I think guys like LT Overton jump out with me. LT was there a lot last year. Those are the next steps you want to take. Not just he, but a lot of guys finishing the plays. LT has it in him, the seal set. He has those instincts. Continues to hone in on taking it to the next level.”

Overton joined Alabama last season, transferring in from Texas A&M. He made an impact at the Crimson Tide’s bandit position, Kane Wommack’s version of a traditional defensive end.

The 6-foot-5, 278-pound center said earlier this offseason that he’s looking to get more sacks in 2025. He had two last season, but missed on numerous chances, unable to get quarterbacks to the ground.

Alabama defensive captain and linebacker Deontae Lawson praised Overton as well.

“LT’s a monster,” Lawson told reporters. “That’s what I like to call him. He came in, I don’t think he weighed as much as he does now, but I think he’s about 280 and, yeah, he’s an animal.”

Overton wasn’t the only player DeBoer pointed to as a potential pass rush asset. He also mentioned Qua Russaw, who will likely replace Robinson as the Crimson Tide’s main edge, the position Wommack refers to as the wolf.

Entering his sophomore year, Russaw is one of several young members of the team who could be helping in the pass rush.

“Qua Russaw is another guy,” DeBoer said. “Some underclassmen that are coming up that are doing a nice job, too. Looking forward to the progress they’ve made physically to be able to put themselves in a chance to let their work happen on the football field on Saturdays.”

Alabama will start preseason camp on July 30. The Crimson Tide opens the 2025 season on Aug. 30, with a trip to Tallahassee to face Florida State.

Alabama’s odds to win the National Championship at +1500 on BetMGM for this upcoming college football season. Our full guide to Alabama’s championship odds provides a deeper look at their chances to bring home the title.

SEC media days will continue through Thursday in Atlanta.