Observations from Alabama Football's Cornerback Drills

Defensive coordinator Kane Wommack issued a clear directive to the Alabama football defensive backs during Saturday's practice: “Strike through the man and punch through.”

This directive came during a tackling drill where players stood with their backs to a red landing mat, and a defensive back would launch into them, driving them onto the mat. While not all players met Wommack’s expectations, one rep from freshman Zabien Brown stood out. Brown lowered his right shoulder and delivered a solid hit, prompting Wommack to acknowledge, “Good. Better with the strike.”

Despite this being a single moment in a practice filled with many, it highlighted Brown’s potential. Competing for a starting cornerback position, Brown's impressive tackling in individual drills, even against non-moving teammates, speaks to his capabilities.

Preseason camp media viewing periods are brief, none exceeding 30 minutes, and primarily showcase position-specific drills without full 11 vs. 11 play. Yet, they offer a glimpse into how the Crimson Tide players train.

During Saturday’s viewing period, AL.com focused on the cornerbacks. Here are some key observations:

• No Fixed Drill Order: Unlike other positions, the cornerbacks didn't have a consistent hierarchy in drills. The order varied, with players like Domani Jackson, DaShawn Jones, Zavier Mincey, Brown, Jaylen Mbakwe, and Jahlil Hurley rotating through drills in different sequences. This shuffling shouldn't be taken as a depth chart but rather as a look at the dynamic nature of their practice.

• Zavier Mincey’s Potential: Another freshman to watch, Mincey stands out with his 6-3 frame. His height makes him an ideal candidate to defend against tall receivers. While he may not secure a starting position immediately, his physical attributes and potential suggest he could be a valuable defender soon.

• Focus on Tackling and Run Defense: The viewing period did not include pass coverage drills. Instead, tackling and run defense were the primary focus.

• Jones and Jackson Impress: Cornerbacks coach Maurice Linguist praised Jones for his technique during a drill where cornerbacks wrapped up teammates holding blocking shields. Jackson also received positive feedback during run defense drills, indicating he’s likely to secure a starting cornerback spot after his transfer from USC.

• Mbakwe’s Development: Five-star freshman Mbakwe showed promise in drills but also had moments that required improvement. His progress will be interesting to follow as he develops further.