Spanish Fort coach Chase Smith got in the holiday spirit early this year.

On Friday night, Smith welcomed back star linebacker and Alabama commit Sterling Dixon from what was feared to be a season-ending shoulder injury.

“It was like Christmas morning when he told us he could play,” Smith said. “It was always about safety first and making sure we were taking care of his health. But he’s been such a team player and humble kid from day one, so he wanted to come back if he could. It was certainly great to have him back.”

Dixon was injured during the Toros’ Sept. 22 win over Theodore. He was expected to have season-ending surgery, but a visit to the doctor Monday brought an encouraging report. On Tuesday, he told his teammates he was ready to return.

“I’m so excited to get back to work with my teammates,” Dixon said after the game. “It honestly didn’t hurt too bad tonight, so that was awesome. I feel great.”

Dixon’s performance certainly didn’t drop off. He finished Friday night’s 35-6 win over St. Paul’s with 12 tackles, including five for loss and 3.5 sacks.

Dixon is No. 7 on the A-List, al.com’s rankings of the top senior prospects in Alabama.

Last season, while playing for Mobile Christian, Dixon recorded 172 tackles, 39 tackles for loss and 18 sacks.

He is expected to graduate high school in December and join the Alabama team in January.