Alabama Freshman Trae’shawn Brown Making Most of Increased Reps

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Injuries in Alabama’s running back room have created additional opportunities for freshman Trae’shawn Brown, and the former three-star prospect appears to be taking advantage of them.

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Speaking after Alabama’s second scrimmage of fall camp Thursday, head coach Kalen DeBoer praised Brown’s development as a ball carrier and his growing command of the responsibilities required at the position.

“You just feel more and more comfortable with him [Trae’shawn Brown] out there. Honestly, I felt pretty good about him as a ball carrier based on what we saw this spring,” DeBoer told reporters. “He’s just always working on ball security and the things that just is faster at the college level, but he’s really adapted well.”

Brown is part of a Crimson Tide rushing attack that ranked second-to-last in the SEC in rushing yards per game last season. With Alabama aiming to revamp its ground attack in 2026, DeBoer pointed specifically to Brown’s improving pass protection, recognition of defensive looks, and understanding of quarterback checks.

“That just leads into pass protections, and any checks that the quarterback makes. You can just see that he’s [Trae’shawn Brown] a smart guy; it matters to him,” DeBoer said. “He’s definitely not noticeable in a bad way out there; he’s going out there, making plays, and continuing to progress.”

With AK Dear expected to miss approximately six weeks and EJ Crowell sidelined for Alabama’s first two scrimmages, Brown has received more work than originally anticipated.

Brown’s performance in last week’s scrimmage earned praise from offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, who spoke with reporters following Alabama’s 10th practice of fall camp Monday, Aug. 17.

“Really, really good empty cut vision, meaning when he gets into a hole, blind cut defenders, he can see and feel that next guy,” Grubb said. “Very good anticipatory skills. He's great out of the backfield. Much better pass protector than people would think because he's short, but he plays down in the middle of defenders, he's got good feet, and he's a smart kid. So, impressive young player.”

With EJ Crowell expected to return next week, Alabama’s running back group is set to get even deeper. Based on what coaches have seen this offseason, the Tide could have two dynamic freshmen contributing alongside returning depth pieces like Dear (once healthy) and Kevin Riley, as well as projected 2026 starter Daniel Hill, who had the second-most carries last season behind Jam Miller.

Micah Nichols covers Alabama baseball, football, and basketball for Tide100.9. Follow @MicahNichols0 on X for in-game updates, highlights, and more Crimson Tide content.