Title: Alabama’s Fierce Battle for Left Guard—Who Will Prevail?
The Alabama Crimson Tide is no stranger to competition, but this year’s battle for the starting left guard position is shaping up to be one of the most intense in recent memory. Three highly talented offensive linemen—each with unique strengths—are vying for the job. While all three have shown flashes of brilliance, only one will emerge as the starter when Alabama kicks off its season.
The Contenders
- Ethan Caldwell – The 6’5”, 325-pound junior is a mauler in the run game, known for his explosive first step and ability to drive defenders off the ball. Caldwell’s experience gives him an edge, but his pass protection has been inconsistent, leading to concerns against elite SEC pass rushers.
- Javon Mitchell – The redshirt sophomore has been turning heads in camp with his athleticism and footwork. At 6’4”, 310 pounds, Mitchell is slightly smaller than Caldwell but compensates with quicker lateral movement. He’s a technician, excelling in zone-blocking schemes, but some insiders question his raw power against top-tier defensive linemen.
- Tyrese Barnes – The wildcard of the competition, Barnes is a 6’6”, 330-pound freshman who has impressed coaches with his strength and raw potential. His inexperience is a concern, but his ceiling is sky-high. If he can refine his technique, he could be the long-term answer at the position.
The Controversy
While most expect Caldwell to win the job due to his experience, an anonymous source inside the program suggests Mitchell has quietly been taking first-team reps in practice. Some speculate that the coaching staff values Mitchell’s pass-blocking skills more than Caldwell’s brute strength. Adding fuel to the fire, a well-known Alabama insider recently claimed that Barnes has “outperformed expectations” and could shock everyone by leapfrogging both veterans.
The controversy deepened when Caldwell, in a now-deleted social media post, appeared to express frustration with the coaching staff, stating, “Gotta control what I can. That’s all I’ll say.” Was it just a general statement, or did he hint at dissatisfaction with the competition’s fairness?
The Verdict
With the season opener looming, head coach Kalen DeBoer has remained tight-lipped about the decision. Insiders suggest the battle could continue into the season, with Alabama rotating guards until one proves himself under the bright lights.
No matter who wins, one thing is clear—this battle isn’t just about who starts at left guard. It’s about who embodies Alabama’s legacy of dominance in the trenches. And in a program where competition never stops, the real test isn’t winning the job—it’s keeping it.
