Alabama starting center's status 'up in the air' for Eastern Illinois game
Alabama could be without starting center Parker Brailsford against Eastern Illinois.
Brailsford got attention from the Crimson Tide’s training staff during last week’s Oklahoma loss. While giving out turkeys to the Boys & Girls Clubs of West Alabama, he wore a walking boot.
Head coach Kalen DeBoer was asked about the Alabama captain’s status on Wednesday.
“He’s a little bit up in the air with where he’s at for this week, just from Saturday,” said DeBoer on the 2025 season’s final SEC coaches teleconference.
Brailsford, a redshirt junior, has started all 10 games for the Tide this season. He transferred to Tuscaloosa last offseason, following DeBoer and company from Washington, and stepped into the starting role at center. On the teleconference, DeBoer mentioned Brailsford — and receiver Germie Bernard — as one of the most consistent players on this Alabama roster.
If Brailsford doesn’t play against Eastern Illinois, UA’s upcoming opponent from the FCS ranks, the Crimson Tide could go with Geno VanDeMark at the center position. If not VanDeMark, who has rotated at left guard, Joseph Ionata could be another option on the offensive line.
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DeBoer was asked about Ionata’s development after he gave the Brailsford update.
“I think Joe’s very similar to many of our guys on our roster that just continue to work,” DeBoer said. “And you see the regulars out on the football field each and every Saturday, but there are definitely guys behind the scenes that are just grinding away in the weight room, on the field, just owning the day and the opportunity they get to go compete. And he’s one of them.
“He’s understanding the game better. From a football IQ, the center position is very important. He’s in a spot where you put him out there and you feel good about what’s going to happen when he’s snapped the football.”
The Alabama-Eastern Illinois game is set for Saturday, Nov. 22, at 1 p.m. CT (SEC Network+).
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