Alabama is “really optimistic” about Justin Jefferson returning next season

TAMPA, Fla. – Alabama may be getting some unexpected help for its future linebacking unit. Earlier this week, the NCAA announced it was granting a waiver allowing former junior college players who would otherwise be ineligible to play in 2025 an additional season of eligibility. That’s good news for Justin Jefferson, who would otherwise be ineligible to play after I transferred to Alabama from Pearl River (Miss.) Community College two years ago.

After Alabama’s bowl practice at Berkeley Preparatory High School in Tampa on Friday, defensive coordinator Kane Wommack said Jefferson intended to return to the Tide for one final season next fall.

“We’re looking into these things right now,” Wommack said. “We are really optimistic that JJ will come back next season. That’s something he wants to do, so let’s hope we get some confirmation on that here sooner rather than later. But at the moment everything seems to be going in the right direction. I think it goes without saying how special that would be for our defense.”

Jefferson started 11 appearances in two games this season. The 1.90 meter tall, 100 kilogram linebacker is fourth on the team with 51 tackles. He also ranks fifth on the team with 5.5 tackles, which is a loss with two sacs and a forced fumble.

Jefferson’s return would be key to an Alabama inside linebacking unit that could lose starters Jihaad Campbell and Deontae Lawson to the NFL draft.

The Crimson Tide recently expanded its linebacking unit, bringing in Colorado graduate Nikhai Hill-Green from the portal. Hill-Green was named second-team All-Big 12 last season and finished the game with 82 tackles, including 11.5 for a loss. He also recorded two sacks, two interceptions and four pass breakups.

“I’m excited to have Nikhai join our program,” said Wommack. “Here is a man with a lot of experience. He played a lot of snaps. When they invited him there, met him and talked ball with him during his official visit, it became clear what a smart football player he was, what a good communicator he would be… I think him and his experience will be crucial to our future.”