Alabama Coaches Delighted By Possible Return of Veteran Linebacker
The NCAA’s recent approval of a blanket waiver that grants former junior college athletes an additional year of eligibility could significantly benefit the Alabama Crimson Tide defense next season. This decision opens the door for senior linebacker Justin Jefferson to return to Alabama in 2025, potentially stepping into an even more prominent role.
Jefferson, a Memphis native, began his collegiate career at Pearl River Community College in Poplarville, MS, before transferring to Alabama in 2023. The waiver follows a case involving Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, who, like Jefferson, faced the possibility of exhausting his eligibility. Pavia filed a lawsuit against the NCAA in November, arguing that his time in junior college shouldn’t count toward his NCAA eligibility. A federal judge in Tennessee sided with him, and the NCAA granted a blanket waiver for athletes like Pavia, allowing them to extend their eligibility into the 2025 season.
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer expressed excitement about the potential return of Jefferson, noting that the linebacker was “pretty excited” to hear about the new opportunity. DeBoer added that Jefferson seemed eager to continue playing college football. Though no official announcement has been made, the waiver opens the door for Jefferson to return and strengthen the defense in 2025.
Defensive coordinator Kane Wommack also spoke positively about the prospect of Jefferson’s return. He mentioned that Jefferson is eager to return for another season, and Wommack remains optimistic about the situation. He emphasized the importance of keeping Jefferson in the fold, especially considering the potential loss of other key linebackers, such as Jihad Campbell and Deontae Lawson. The prospect of Jefferson returning would provide a much-needed boost to Alabama’s linebacker corps.
Jefferson has made an impact during his time with Alabama, rotating in as the Mike linebacker and making notable contributions this season. He recorded 52 total tackles, two sacks, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery, showcasing his rising presence within the defense. His return would offer depth and experience to a unit that could lose several key contributors.
With the recent addition of Nikhai Hill-Green from Colorado via the transfer portal, the Alabama defense is poised to benefit from experienced linebackers, should Jefferson return. His potential return in 2025 would provide veteran depth, strengthening the middle of the Crimson Tide defense for the upcoming season.
