Alabama DC Kane Wommack Discusses Spring Practice

Wommack talks about returning players, defensive line, linebacker depth, and more after the Tide's fourth spring practice.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:40pm

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Alabama defensive coordinator Kane Wommack spoke to reporters after the Crimson Tide's fourth spring practice on March 13. Wommack discussed the return of key defensive players, the need to generate more pass rush, the versatility of the Bandit and Wolf positions, and the progress of several newcomers and young players.

Why it matters

As Alabama looks to build on its defensive success from the past two seasons, Wommack's comments provide insight into the Tide's offseason priorities and the development of the defense heading into the 2026 campaign.

The details

Wommack highlighted the importance of getting players like Bray Hubbard, Keon Sabb, and Yhonzae Pierre back, saying their decisions will have a big impact. He also noted the need to create more negative plays and generate a stronger pass rush, an area the defense struggled with at times. Wommack discussed the interchangeable nature of the Bandit and Wolf positions and mentioned several players who have stood out, including Yhonzae Pierre, Devan Thompkins, and Carmelo O'Neal. The coordinator also praised the maturity and work ethic of transfers like Thompkins and Caleb Woodson.

  • Alabama held its fourth spring practice on March 13, 2026.

The players

Kane Wommack

Alabama's defensive coordinator who spoke to reporters after the team's fourth spring practice.

Bray Hubbard

An Alabama defensive player who Wommack said is returning to the team.

Keon Sabb

An Alabama defensive player who Wommack said is returning to the team.

Yhonzae Pierre

An Alabama defensive player who Wommack said is returning to the team and provided a pass-rushing presence last season.

Devan Thompkins

A transfer from USC who Wommack praised for his versatility and ability to play both inside and outside on the defensive line.

Carmelo O'Neal

A transfer from Mercer who Wommack said has impressed with his size, athleticism, and coachability at cornerback.

Caleb Woodson

A transfer from Virginia Tech who Wommack said has brought a professional, business-like approach and sets the tone for the defense with his effort and physicality.

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What they’re saying

“Those are the decisions that are made in January that affect us from September to the next January, hopefully. And those are some of the biggest wins in recruiting. We try to be very open with our players about what we think the best decision is for them.”

— Kane Wommack, Alabama Defensive Coordinator

“We've shown flashes of it. But I'd like to be more dominant up front. I think we've addressed some of those needs with the guys that we've got in the transfer portal. Really excited with some of the new defensive linemen.”

— Kane Wommack, Alabama Defensive Coordinator

“Devan Thompkins is moving around a lot for us. He can move outside, he can move inside. He's kind of a force to be reckoned with.”

— Kane Wommack, Alabama Defensive Coordinator

“Caleb Woodson has been a really great presence in that room, just from an experience maturity standpoint.”

— Kane Wommack, Alabama Defensive Coordinator

“Caleb is really setting the tone for those things right now.”

— Kane Wommack, Alabama Defensive Coordinator

What’s next

Wommack and the Alabama coaching staff will continue to evaluate the defense's progress throughout the remainder of spring practice as they look to build on the unit's success from the past two seasons.

The takeaway

Alabama's defense appears to be in good hands with Wommack leading the unit. The return of key players, the addition of talented transfers, and the development of young talent have the Tide poised to field another strong defense in 2026 as they aim to compete for a national championship.