Henry To'oTo'o explains his connection with Deontae Lawson, his development at MLB

Alabama’s linebackers are a strong point of team and a prominent reason why the Tide once again possess one of the best defenses in the country. And its senior leader, Henry To’oTo’o — in his second year since transferring from Tennessee — is passing the ‘Bama culture down from one generation of LB to the next.

To’oTo’o and Jaylen Moody are the elder statesman of the position room, along with Will Anderson, who really is more of a defensive end/edge rusher. But after they depart following this season, newer names, such as former five-star and redshirt freshman Deontae Lawson, will be asked to plug the holes seamlessly.

Out of high school (the 2021 class), Lawson was the No. 21 overall player per On3 and the second-ranked linebacker in the entire country. A blue-chip recruit. Now, he’s in his second season learning under To’oTo’o and others, so that when he takes on a larger role next fall, he’ll be ready.

He and To’oTo’o have developed a strong connection already, with the upperclassman mentoring the freshman.

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“You know, crazy story. Me and Deontae has been super close since last year, since he got here,” To’oTo’o shared at a press conference this week. “And I got here, spent so much time with him on and off the field and being able to spend so much time during the summer and in the spring. You know, I kind of took him under my wing.”

Deontae Lawson has a heck of a role model learn from. And that role model sees quite a bit of promise in the youngster.

“And just seeing the potential in him, how he can carry on that legacy of linebackers when me and Jaylen Moody leave. You know, he’s a great player, so physical, so smart, so instinctive. I’m super excited about his future, But we’re really focused on this season, how he can be a great player this season. He’s been a huge part to our defense, so definitely blessed to have him here.”

Even beyond this season, where the linebacker room is loaded, the second level of the Alabama defense ought to be strong for years to come.