Chris Owens happy for opportunity to return for sixth season at Alabama

Alabama offensive lineman Chris Owens is a unique player as he is about to enter his sixth season in college football. He redshirted as a freshman in 2016, and the NCAA granted all players an extra season of eligibility after last year was impacted by COVID. Owens spoke to the media recently, where he talked about his future and being the “old man” of the team.

Owens has spent most of his career as a backup

Last season, Owens started both College Football Playoff games for Alabama at center after Landon Dickerson went down to injury. In his career, Owens has played in 38 games, starting seven. As one of the oldest players on the team, Owens has embraced his role and is trying to enjoy his final season. He even jumped in and asked a question during a teammate’s media availability last week.

After being on the other side of the podium, Owens was asked if he is interested in a career in media after his playing days are over. Owens admitted that it was possible, although he doesn’t think his playing days are over quite yet.

“I mean, I’ve worked really hard on public speaking and trying to answer questions correctly, interview questions, all sorts of stuff,” Owens said. “But I’m not too sure. I kind of want to go towards the NFL GM route someday. But that’s a long way away. Right now, I’m just focused on getting through the season, trying to progress to the NFL, and when I get there, I’ll get there. That is something I kind of had in mind especially going into college. I’ve had a lot of practice at it.”

The opportunity to return for one final season was a no-brainer for Owens

Last season was not a traditional one across college football. There were not many fans in stadiums, taking away from the overall experience for some players. With fans expected back at games across the country, Owens couldn’t turn down a sixth season. Owens is appreciative for his time at Alabama so far, and the chance to make more memories this season excited him.

“I’ve sat behind some really good people since I’ve been here,” Owens said. “I got to learn from everyone that came before me. It was all about the process. That’s all we talk about around here. Having the chance to have another year and build value for myself and make more memories with the team, that’s what it was always about. I had the opportunity and I took it. Being back one more year means that we get to play in front of fans again. I’ll take that opportunity any chance I get.”

Returning for a sixth season has definitely resulted in some jokes being thrown at Owens for being around the program for so long.

“I mean, I already have gray hair in my beard,” Owens said. “Anytime someone sees it they say, ‘Oh you got some fuzz in your beard!’ No, it’s gray hair. But I get called old man, senior citizen, I get called a lot of names. I’m kind of used to it at this point.”