Alabama offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb gave Crimson Tide fans some real hope that freshman running back EJ Crowell will be able to suit up for Saturday’s season opener against East Carolina.
With the Tide facing the Pirates in a noon ET kickoff on ABC, Grubb told reporters on Monday that he’s expecting Crowell to be available, as long as he gets the approval of Alabama head athletic trainer Jeff Allen. Crowell was a 5-star recruit out of Jackson, Ala., who stayed in-state to star at Alabama, but the leadup to his first season in Tuscaloosa has been anything but steady.
Crowell wasn’t able to participate in most of spring football for the Crimson Tide. Other than taking just a few snaps in the spring, he was sidelined by an unspecified lower-leg injury. Crowell was seen in a boot and was getting around in a scooter during the A-Day Spring Game instead of unofficially introducing himself to his new fan base.
Apparently though, that delayed introduction has a good chance of happening in Week 1 on Saturday, if Grubb and the coaching staff get Allen’s approval. A really good sign occurred on Sunday, when Crowell was able to practice with the Crimson Tide in the runup to the season opener.
Grubb told reporters on Monday that Crowell “looked really, really good,” and time will tell if this paves the way for Crowell to play against East Carolina.
Ryan Grubb says he expects EJ Crowell to be available to play Saturday, pending approval from Jeff Allen. Crowell practiced yesterday and "looked really, really good," Grubb said, calling he and Noah Rogers like the "Wolverine" as they return from injuries.
— Mike Rodak (@mikerodak) August 31, 2026Crowell’s ability to stay healthy this season will likely be crucial as Alabama tries to stack some wins together and return to the College Football Playoff. Here is what the Kalshi market is currently saying about the Crimson Tide’s potential win total for the 2026 season:
Prediction Markets How many games will Alabama win in 2026? Learn more about Prediction Markets Kalshi 8+ wins 81% 9+ wins 63% 10+ wins 37% 11+ wins 16% 12 wins 12% PredictAlabama OC Ryan Grubb offers encouraging update on 5-star freshman RB EJ Crowell Saturday Down South.
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