Alabama Senior Defensive Lineman is Likely Done for the Season

Alabama head coach Nick Saban announced that veteran defensive lineman Justin Eboigbe will likely not play again this season in a teleconference call with the media on Wednesday

"He had a procedure done that would enhance his opportunity to play in the future," Saban said. "However, I do not think that is going to come this season."

Eboigbe, who hasn't played since Sept. 24, suffered a neck injury prior to Alabama's matchup against Arkansas. He was off to to the best start of his collegiate career, totaling 11 tackles in just four games.

Get our free mobile app

The Forest Park, Georgia native arrived to Tuscaloosa in 2019 as part of the Tide's No. 1 ranked recruiting class. DJ Dale and Byron Young accompanied Eboigbe in the defensive line room, with all three earning early playing time from the moment they stepped on campus.

Eboigbe recorded three tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks in his freshman season, despite only playing in four games. In his sophomore and junior seasons he recorded 19 tackles and 0.5 sacks in each season.

Defensive lineman DJ Dale and Jaheim Oatis have also been dealing with injuries as both missed the game against Mississippi State. The bye week comes at a crucial time for Alabama as the team hopes to get Dale or Oatis healthy enough to play against LSU.

With injuries plaguing the defensive line, an opportunity to be the next man up is presented to younger, less experienced defensive lineman.  Against Mississippi State, Jamil Burroughs recorded five tackles and half a sack, while redshirt freshman and former five-star Damon Payne Jr. recorded three solo tackles.

Byron Young and Tim Smith will be leaned on more now to help guide the younger, less experienced defensive lineman through the last quarter of the regular season.