Alabama football fans have received uplifting news as standout linebacker Deontae Lawson continues making impressive strides in his recovery from a devastating injury. Lawson’s journey back to full health has been anything but easy. In the 2024 season, the highly talented and versatile defensive leader was on track to make the jump to the NFL once the year concluded. His plans, however, were abruptly derailed when he suffered a season-ending ACL injury in a matchup against Oklahoma, cutting short his campaign and forcing him to reconsider his future.
Rather than immediately pursuing a professional career while rehabbing, Lawson chose to remain in Tuscaloosa, dedicating himself to a full recovery with the Crimson Tide program and committing to one more season in college football. This decision allowed him to take advantage of the university’s world-class medical resources, stay close to his teammates, and maintain his leadership role on the roster.
Now, as the 2025 season approaches, Lawson is back on the practice field and in high spirits. Speaking to reporters after Alabama’s 12th preseason camp session, he provided an encouraging update on his condition. “I feel pretty good,” Lawson said with a smile. “I’m just happy to be running around with the guys again, really not thinking too much about the injury. Just being able to get back out here makes me feel good.”
At the start of camp, Lawson’s workload was lighter than that of his teammates, a precautionary measure to ensure his surgically repaired knee could handle the gradual increase in activity. Even so, he’s been steadily progressing. While his reps are still somewhat limited, Lawson fully expects to ramp up his participation as the season nears, ensuring he’s in peak form by kickoff.
Alabama’s coaching staff has expressed confidence that Lawson will be ready for the team’s highly anticipated season opener against Florida State on August 30. Defensive coordinator Kane Wommack, in particular, had high praise for the veteran linebacker’s attitude and progress throughout the rehab process.
“He’s actually doing a great job, Deontae, it’s amazing,” Wommack said on Wednesday. “I thought he carried himself at such a professional level a year ago, and his leadership was so impressive. Somehow, he’s taken both his game and leadership to another level. That’s really remarkable when you consider not only the challenge of recovering from a serious injury, but also the fact that he’s managed to stay ahead of every recovery milestone we set for him.”
Wommack noted that while the coaching staff initially considered limiting Lawson’s workload throughout fall camp, the linebacker’s resilience and performance during drills have led them to push him harder than expected. “We’ve really pushed him,” Wommack added, “and he’s handled it extremely well.”
As the Crimson Tide gear up for the season, Lawson’s presence brings stability, leadership, and elite defensive skill to a unit that will face a challenging schedule. His determination to come back stronger not only boosts Alabama’s championship hopes but also sets an inspiring example for his teammates. From a crushing injury to a promising return, Lawson’s story is shaping up to be one of perseverance, discipline, and renewed ambition in 2025.
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