Alabama could be getting several key starters back in time for a game at LSU on Saturday with College Football Playoff implications.
The No. 9-ranked Crimson Tide saw star wide receiver Ryan Coleman-Williams, preseason All-America cornerback Zabien Brown, center Racin Delgatty and defensive tackle Terrance Green sidelined by injuries last month. But after having last week off, coach Kalen DeBoer sounded optimistic on Monday about their recovery and possible return, saying they're all "headed in a good direction" in advance of the game vs. the No. 15 Tigers.
"A lot of these guys from Zabien Brown to Ryan Coleman-Williams, EJ [Crowell], Racin [Delgatty], Terrance Green in particular -- those guys are all working onto the football field," DeBoer said. "They're not all in the exact same spot, but they're all out there going through workouts. Some are taking team reps, some are taking noncontact reps."
Crowell, a former five-star prospect, has been one of the team's most promising ball carriers. The freshman running back has rushed for four touchdowns and is averaging 6.8 yards per carry.
Coleman-Williams, a former All-America pick, led the team in receptions and receiving touchdowns when he was injured vs. Georgia. He underwent arthroscopic knee surgery and did not play against Tennessee or Texas A&M.
Delgatty, a former transfer, missed the past two games as well with a knee injury.
Starting left guard William Sanders is not expected to be available after suffering a lower-body injury vs. Texas A&M. Mal Waldrep Jr., who would be a strong contender to step in for Sanders, has been playing center in Delgatty's absence.
Brown suffered a lower-body injury vs. Tennessee, leaving Alabama thin at cornerback. The former Freshman All-SEC pick was a popular Preseason All-America selection before the season.
Green, another transfer who has been instrumental in stopping the run, has been dealing with a lingering foot injury for several weeks.
DeBoer said their progress has been positive but they'll continue to be monitored throughout the week.
"I think a lot of it has to do with how their bodies respond after they're out there being pushed a little bit more," he said.
Alabama and LSU are among a group of two-loss SEC teams, including Texas, Tennessee and Ole Miss, fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive as a third loss could leave them on the outside looking in.