Alabama's Deontae Lawson out for the season with injury
- Deontae Lawson will no longer participate for the season due to a lower extremity injury suffered during a game against Oklahoma.
- Lawson ranks second on the team with 76 tackles, alongside significant stats including sacks and pass breakups.
- Justin Jefferson will replace him as a starter, further impacting Alabama's defense as they approach their game against Auburn.
In Tuscaloosa, Alabama, linebacker Deontae Lawson has sustained a lower extremity injury that will sideline him for the remainder of the season. The injury occurred during the first half of Alabama's game against Oklahoma, where they suffered a disappointing 24-3 defeat. Coach Kalen DeBoer updated the media on Monday, confirming Lawson's absence for the upcoming match against Auburn and for any postseason play. Lawson's performance has been significant this season as he ranks second on the team with 76 tackles, along with notable contributions in sacks and pass breakups. Replacing Lawson, Justin Jefferson is set to take over starting duties against Auburn. Jefferson currently has 45 tackles and two sacks for the season. The team had already faced challenges with linebacker Que Robinson being out for the season with an arm injury prior to Lawson's setback. Lawson, a chosen team captain and two-year starter, has been praised for his leadership and the positive influence he has had on his teammates. The loss of a key player like Lawson not only impacts the lineup but also affects team morale and cohesion in the locker room. Coach DeBoer highlighted both the on-field contributions and the leadership qualities Lawson brought to the team, stating that his absence will be felt in multiple ways.