Ryan Grubb Gives Updates on Offensive Line Ahead of Week One

TUSCALOOSA, Ala.- Alabama's offensive line has been a point of contention all offseason, with four new starters set to take the field for the Tide in week one. Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb gave some answers on who will start Alabama's season opener against the East Carolina Pirates.

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Earlier in the spring, Grubb announced that sophomore Jackson Lloyd will be the starter at left tackle alongside senior transfer Racin Delgatty at center and sophomore Michael Carroll at right guard. On Monday morning, Grubb added another name to the starting offensive line, with junior guard William Sanders set to make his first career start against the Pirates on Saturday afternoon.

Grubb commended Sanders on his work ethic returning from an injury that kept him out during spring practice and limited him during summer workouts.

“I think it’s all the stuff you see the guys get the opportunity in spring ball to work their way through their game and their craft. For Will, he never really got that opportunity," Grubb said. "Even in the summer, he took very limited reps. I felt like Will was a really good player going into the offseason, so just to see where he’s at right now and how quickly he’s gotten himself back to the expectations we have- and I know he certainly has for himself- has been impressive."

Sanders saw action in all 15 games last season for the Tide, blocking on extra points and field goals while coming in at guard in 10 games last season, and is set to take over as the replacement for Kam Dewberry, who left for the NFL following last season. Grubb also noted that transfer lineman Jayvin James has been taking a "Lions share of reps" at right tackle with the first team offense, but we could "Potentially see another guy there." James has been competing with Texas transfer Nick Brooks at right tackle.

Alabama is scheduled to open the 2026 season hosting the East Carolina Pirates on Saturday, September 5. Kickoff is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. CT.

Ryan Bond is an intern for Tide 100.9 with an avid interest in college football and college basketball. To keep up with Ryan, follow him on X at @Ryanb5172