Alabama defensive lineman James Smith (#23) raises up four fingers to indicate the start of the Crimson Tide’s fourth quarter against WKU in 2024.USA Today Sports – Gary Cosby Jr.
Although he had some inconsistent play towards the end of spring practice, Freddie Roach and Kane Wommack are developing this dynamic former five-star defensive end.
James Smith, a former student of Montgomery, Alabama’s Carver High School, has every chance to be a disruptive All-American defensive lineman for the Crimson Tide. Although the 6-foot-3, 296-pound player was a vicious bully in high school, he is now learning how to use his will to strengthen Alabama’s defense. In Alabama’s 63-0 victory over Western Kentucky in the season opener, he recorded two pass breakups and a quarterback hurry, showing some promise.
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Smith, a second-year player for the Tide, “has taken his game to the next level,” according to coach Roach, who said on Wednesday that he sees the youngster developing in discipline.
James has matured much, in Roach’s opinion.
“He’s earned what he deserves because he’s worked hard.” He attended every day of camp and kept getting better. That’s excellent. We’re attempting to create depth in that space so that several men may perform there. He performed a fantastic job.
The inclusion of Smith in the 2023 signing class delighted Alabama supporters.
Under Wommack and Roach, he is developing into a star player up front.
