Jase McClellan gives expectations for Alabama's backfield

From Najee Harris to Brian Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs, the running back torch at Alabama has now been passed down to Jase McClellan as he heads into the senior season with the Crimson Tide.

After three seasons as a backup McClellan now takes center stage, serving as RB1 and the elder statesman of a young and talented running back unit. And during fall camp, he was asked about his expectations for the running back room ahead of the 2023 season.

“All of us being ready to play. We’re coached the best,” McClellan said. “Something we talked about, being more physical, being downhill runners. That’s something we’re working on right now.”

McClellan has definitely played downhill during his career with Alabama, ranking second on the team in carries and rushing yards last season and tying with Gibbs for most rushing touchdowns, finishing the season with 112 carries and 655 rushing yards to go with seven scores on the ground.

He also got it done as a receiving option, hauling in 14 catches for 174 yards and three receiving touchdowns for his second straight season.

There’s still some uncertainty with exactly how McClellan will be utilized this season, as new offensive coordinator Tommy Rees now takes over as Alabama’s play-caller, joining the team this offseason from Notre Dame. Rees previously mentioned that the talented Crimson Tide running back room has very little drop-off from one rusher to another, which McClellan elaborated on.

“That’s what I’m talking about, being prepared, getting those guys ready because if somebody goes down, being the next guy up. No drop off, having all those guys ready even when you come in as a freshman,” McClellan explained.

McClellan is joined in the backfield by another senior Roydell Williams, the Crimson Tide’s third-leading rusher from a season ago. But Alabama also brought in a dynamic duo of freshman running backs with Justice Haynes and Richard Young joining the team this offseason, both four-star prospects ranked the No. 2 and No. 4 running backs in the nation for the 2023 class according to On3’s Industry Ranking.

Haynes in particular impressed during spring practice for the Crimson Tide, even reaching the end zone three times during Alabama’s A-Day Spring Game. And he and the whole crew of Alabama’s running back can definitely make a big impact this season, as Rees’ offense last year at Notre Dame featured three rushers with 100 carries or more.