Jihaad Campbell and Jehiem Oatis, two expected starters for Kane Wommack’s Alabama defense, warmed up at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Yet, both were relegated to the sideline when the annual A-Day spring game started. Their crimson uniforms remained clean through Saturday afternoon.

Despite Oatis not participating in many practices or scrimmages, head coach Kalen DeBoer explained postgame why there should be little cause for concern, at least for now.

“If we had another week, for sure if we had two weeks, if we had another week of spring ball by the end of next week, again I’m not the one that clears them, I think they would probably be both really close to being ready to go,” DeBoer said in a news conference. “Just want to be careful and not push it. We don’t want to set them back. They’re right on pace, right where we expect them to be.”

Oatis, a defensive lineman, totaled 26 tackles in 13 games last season. Campbell worked in and out of the starting lineup at linebacker along with Deontae Lawson. Campbell was third on the team with 66 total tackles. He also had an interception and two fumble recoveries.

Tim Keenan III and Tim Smith held their usual roles as Alabama’s interior linemen. Jeremiah Alexander and Justin Okoronkwo made the most of Campbell’s absence, combining for 18 tackles.

Only one player appeared to injure himself during Alabama’s scrimmage. Freshman Casey Poe spent time in the medical tent and was later spotted with his left arm in a sling.

“Shoot, if it was a half, it would’ve been a tale of two halves. That’s why we keep playing. So many things we’re gonna get to learn from this scrimmage depending on what side of the ball you’re on,” DeBoer said.

Wide receiver Jalen Hale was also spotted on crutches with his left leg in a brace. On March 28, DeBoer said Hale had suffered a “significant” knee injury in practice.

UA’s offense bested its defense, 34-28. It was the 15th and final practice of the spring for DeBoer and co. The transfer portal window opens on Tuesday, April 15 and runs through April 30.

Nick Alvarez is a reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @nick_a_alvarez or email him at [email protected].