On Saturday, offensive line coach Chris Kapilovic addressed reporters about the ongoing competition at the tackle positions for the Alabama Crimson Tide as the 2024 season approaches. While Alabama’s interior offensive line is considered among the best in the nation, the tackle spots remain unsettled.
The Crimson Tide retains both of its starting guards, Tyler Booker and Jaeden Roberts, and has added Washington transfer Parker Brailsford to fill the center position. However, Alabama faces uncertainty on the outside. The team lost J.C. Latham to the NFL, and although Kadyn Proctor, a key player, returns, he missed spring practice due to a brief stint with the Iowa Hawkeyes.
Following Alabama’s third practice of fall camp on Saturday, Kapilovic expressed no concerns about the ongoing tackle competitions. He indicated that the battle for these positions might extend into the start of the season. “We need to rotate players to see who stands out, particularly in our first scrimmage,” Kapilovic said. “I hope to see competition not only at tackle but across all positions. If necessary, I’m open to using three tackles early in the season to determine who can step up.”
Kadyn Proctor, a former five-star recruit, is a strong candidate for one of the tackle spots. Standing 6-foot-7, Proctor has impressed coaches with his attitude and improvement since rejoining the Crimson Tide. Kapilovic acknowledged Proctor’s development despite some early-season struggles last year. “A lesser player might have given up, but Proctor improved throughout the season,” Kapilovic noted. “Although missing spring ball wasn’t ideal, he worked hard over the summer and has shown positive progress. He’s more open to coaching and has slimmed down, which should help him compete effectively.”
Redshirt sophomore Elijah Pritchett is also vying for a tackle position. Pritchett shared time at left tackle with Proctor last season but ultimately did not secure the spot. Kapilovic highlighted Pritchett’s versatility, noting his ability to play on both the left and right sides. “Pritchett has made significant strides since my arrival,” Kapilovic said. “He’s a strong, athletic player with good feet. His challenge is to become comfortable with the scheme and maintain high-level performance consistently.”
Redshirt freshman Wilkin Formby is another competitor for a starting tackle role, having spent time with the first unit during spring practice and the A-Day game. Offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan has also praised the offensive line’s performance in the early days of camp. “The first day in pads was today, so we’ll review the film,” Sheridan said. “The line has shown good performance so far, and Coach Kapilovic has done a great job developing them. While we still have a lot of work ahead, the initial days have been promising.”
The decision on the starting tackles will become clearer over time, but Kapilovic has emphasized that he is focused on making the right choice rather than adhering to a specific timeline.