3 Early Enrollees That Will Challenge For A Starting Job

First impressions arguably mean more to Nick Saban than any other coach in college football. Spring allows newcomers to show what they can do. Every player is out to prove something, but none more than freshmen that have already enrolled.

Last year, tight end O.J. Howard enrolled early and was listed as a starter once fall rolled around. Running back Derrick Henry also enrolled early and saw playing time that included rushing for 100 yards and a touchdown on just 8 carries in the Sugar Bowl.

Many great players have enrolled from this year's historic recruiting class, but which ones are most likely to see playing time in the fall?

Cameron Robinson, OT

Cameron Robinson joins the likes of Andre Smith, DJ Fluker, and Cyrus Kouandijo as being one of the top offensive tackles coming out of high school to sign with Alabama. Robinson was an Under Armour All-American and a 5-star recruit according to all major recruiting websites. With Kouandijo departing for the NFL Draft, all signs point to Robinson replacing him at left tackle.

The 6'6, 320 pound lineman has great speed for his size and uses that to get down field to pick up more blocks. A man like Robinson is not one you see everyday, and it's almost fair to say that he could be the man to beat at left tackle even though he is only a freshman.

Tony Brown, CB

Tony Brown, like Robinson, was a 5-star recruit across all major recruiting websites and played in the Under Armour All-American game. He is highly regarded as one of the best defensive backs in the country and has a great opportunity to challenge for a starting job. Cornerbacks John Fulton and Deion Belue have graduated which opens the door for Brown. he will face competition against players like Eddie Jackson and Geno Smith.

Although he has yet to play a college game, he may be the most athletic cornerback on campus right now. The track star has a great awareness for the football and has the speed to keep up with almost any wide receiver in the country.

Laurence "Hootie" Jones, S

Hootie Jones could not have enrolled at a more perfect time. The Monroe, Louisiana native's opportunities are endless with Ha Ha Clinton-Dix and Vinnie Sunseri leaving a year early to enter the NFL Draft. Safety Landon Collins is a guaranteed starter next year, but Jones could be his partner in crime. Both players hit like linebackers while also obtaining the necessary coverage skills.

Jones fits the criteria of every successful safety in the Saban era. He may be one of the more underrated players coming out of this year's recruiting class. Alabama is building depth in the secondary so Jones will have competition. It should not surprise anyone if he wins a starting job.