TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- Like nearly every unit on the defense, the linebackers are going to look very different than in years past. Defensive stalwarts Dont’a Hightower and Courtney Upshaw are gone, off to lives as probable first-round draft picks.
With their departure, Alabama is left with a crater in talent and leadership. All three of the top tacklers on the best defense in college football last year will play on Sundays this fall.
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Greg Ostendorf
Greg Ostendorf joined ESPN.com in 2012 after covering University of Alabama football and basketball recruiting at the Tuscaloosa News and Rivals.com. Ostendorf graduated from the University of Alabama and currently resides in Tuscaloosa, Ala. Email him at gsostendorf.espn@gmail.com.
Alex Scarborough
Alex Scarborough joined ESPN.com in 2012 after covering University of Alabama athletics and high school football for The Tuscaloosa News. He currently resides in Tuscaloosa, Ala. Email him at alexscarborough.espn@gmail.com.