Alabama DL Byron Young announces plan for football future

Alabama Crimson Tide defensive linemen Byron Young took to social media on Friday night to announce he will be returning to Tuscaloosa for the 2022 season.

Run it back #year4 pic.twitter.com/9BgSTIwY2N

— Byron Young (@ByronYoung19) January 15, 2022

“When I chose to come to the University of Alabama, I knew that I wanted to focus on developing myself as a player, as a student and most importantly as a man,” Young wrote.

“I’ve learned a lot in my three years here. The coaching staff, support staff, and all of my teammates have helped me become all I had hoped for when I signed here. But I still have room left to grow, and the only way to do that is by returning for my senior season. I still have plenty of goals in sight, like graduating and winning another national championship.

The fans and all of the people at the University have been nothing but great during my time here and made this a home for me. This place is truly special and I can’t wait to be back in Bryant-Denny for the 2022 season.”

On a day where several Alabama Crimson Tide players declared for the NFL Draft, this is refreshing for fans and Nick Saban alike.

While it’s impossible to ignore all of the talent that is leaving the program, with multiple announcements coming from several starters over the last few days, the Tide defense appears to be in good shape for 2022.

Along with Young, safeties Jordan Battle and DeMarcco Hellams told fans they were returning next season.

Battle was voted first-team All-SEC by both the AP and the coaches within the conference for his performances this season. He played in all 15 games at the strong safety position, recording 84 tackles. In pass coverage, Battle had three interceptions, one of which came against Georgia in the SEC championship, and three passes defended.

With the return on Battle, the Alabama Crimson Tide defense will once again be one of the top units in the country. Alongside the return of fellow defensive back DeMarcco Hellams and linebacker Henry To’o To’o, Pete Golding will have a plethora of returning talent to work with.