The Alabama Crimson Tide held its first practice of the 2022 spring session on Friday and head coach Nick Saban met with the media to introduce the new year. Saban expressed excitement for the team and anticipation for the upcoming season. He also announced that the Tide would be without three players for the spring, Ja'Corey Brooks, Darrian Dalcourt and Keanu Koht.

"We got a couple of guys that are gonna be out for the spring. Ja'Corey Brooks is out for the spring. Darrian Dalcourt will be out for the spring. Keanu Koht, all those guys are out for the spring, whether they had injuries coming out of the season or whatever," said Saban.

Dalcourt, a senior center, is expected to compete for a starting position with Seth McLaughlin in the upcoming season. He started 11 games in 2021 for the Tide at center and was replaced by McLaughlin due to injury.

Brooks, a sophomore receiver, is expecting to be in the mix to replace lost receiving production from the 2021 team. He saw playing time in every game as a freshman on special teams and as a backup to Jameson Williams and John Metchie. He hauled in 15 passes for 192 yards and two touchdowns, including a game-tying score against the Auburn Tigers.

Koht, a redshirt freshman outside linebacker, didn't see the field in 2021. He's rated a 4-star prospect out of Florida and was a late addition to the Tide's 2021 recruiting class, choosing Alabama over LSU.

Missing spring practice is never good as its a great opportunity to develop and prove oneself. It may be particularly costly for the three players in particular as they are all in heated battles for playing time.

Alabama hits the field for A-Day on Saturday, April 16 for its annual spring game.

2021 SEC Championship Game Alabama vs. Georgia

The Alabama Crimson Tide defeated the No. 1 ranked Georgia Bulldogs 41-24 to win the 2021 SEC Championship.

2021 SEC Championship Game Alabama vs. Georgia

The Alabama Crimson Tide defeated the No. 1 ranked Georgia Bulldogs 41-24 to win the 2021 SEC Championship.

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