Jaylen Moody shares what he can learn from Brian Robinson Jr. waiting his turn

Alabama linebacker Jaylen Moody spoke about what he learned from watching Brian Robinson Jr. “wait his turn” to be an impact player for the Crimson Tide. Robinson spent four seasons with Alabama before getting the nod as starting running back in his fifth year, a situation that is playing out very similarly for Moody this year. Robinson’s patience paid off last season — he rushed for 1,343 yards and 16 total touchdowns alongside Heisman-winning quarterback Bryce Young.

Jaylen Moody on learning from Brian Robinson Jr.

Speaking at a press conference after spring practice this week, Moody spoke about multiple topics as an emerging key part of coach Nick Saban’s defense. Moody, a redshirt senior, has spent four years with the Crimson Tide mostly on special teams with more limited use at linebacker. As he enters his fifth year, Moody was asked if he had learned anything from watching Robinson go through the same situation on the offensive side of the ball.

“Brian, you know, having a chance to see Brian this season and how he handled everything,” said Moody. “He really has helped me and motivated me to go about my business the right way. He handled it very mature. To see him just wait his turn, grind and just stay focused. Helped me to stay the course and be ready for when anything happens or when my time comes — I can be ready for any situation.”

Moody has seen action on the field at linebacker and special teams throughout his career with Alabama, using his versatility to impact the game however coach Nick Saban needs. Now, Moody is set to become a focal point of the defense alongside fellow senior linebacker Henry To’oTo’o.

Jaylen Moody on playing alongside Henry To’oTo’o

During his same press appearance, Moody was asked how he would describe his game and how he can be used to complement the talents of To’oTo’o on the field.

“I think I’m a very instinctive guy,” answered Moody. “I definitely like to say that I process things very well. I just let a lot of things come to me. I just feel like I’m a very instinctive player. I can help the team in so many ways by just doing my job, showing that I’m ready for any situation or just being able to play my role. I think I communicate very well. I think I help on the defense by being able to be vocal, put people in position and also understanding where everybody needs to be as a linebacker. Being able to be versatile, playing Mike and Will.”