Pete Golding breaks down Alabama's ongoing competition at the weakside linebacker

Pete Golding is entering his fifth season as the Alabama defensive back and might have his best group of linebackers. A lot of talent will be returning to Tuscaloosa, with Henry To’o To’o coming back for a second year in the program. However, there is some competition for the starting weakside linebacker spot.

During a rare press conference, Golding discussed who is standing out to him. He mentioned Jaylen Moody and Deontae Lawson first, specifically saying the latter has performed well in practice over the past few months. What scheme Alabama is running on a per-game basis dictates who gets on the field as well.

“No position here is in stone,” Golding began. “Henry had a good year, he’s at the MIKE position. I think of that WILL spot — based on what you’re in — whether you’re in a 3-4 system or a 4-2. You’ve got Moody who’s got experience in the system. You got Dionte Lawson, who I think had a good spring, had a good summer, and he’s having a good fall camp.

Lawson spent last season redshirting, only playing in Alabama’s four nonconference games. He was not able to record a tackle but is well in the running for serious time in 2022. As for Moody, he has a bit more experience, entering his fifth year. The linebacker had 11 tackles and an interception while playing reserve time.

Young linebackers impressing Pete Golding early in fall camp

Two young freshmen also drew good reviews from Golding, with former On3 Consensus five-star prospect Jihaad Campbell being one of them. However, the defensive coordinator went more into detail about Ian Jackson, saying the second-year player has done a good job preparing off the field.

“I think there’s a push right there right now and then you add young players to it. Jihaad Campbell and I think Ian Jackson has been preparing the right way, practicing hard. We’re moving some guys around and getting those guys to compete. That’s what fall camp is for. We’ll have to come out of camp to see who that guy is.”

If there’s one thing Golding does have with the weakside linebacker position, it’s options. No matter who he decides to trot out there in the season opener against Utah State on Sept. 3, Alabama is going to be in good hands. Especially with a top-caliber player such as To’o To’o playing alongside him.