Alabama Expands EJ Crowell Role After Freshman Progress

Alabama freshman running back EJ Crowell is expected to see more opportunities after coaches addressed his limited role during the 2026 season. The Crimson Tide staff said Crowell's growth in the offense, pass protection and overall responsibilities has influenced his playing time.

According to 247Sports, Crowell has played 43 offensive snaps in five games, ranking third among Alabama running backs. He has rushed 26 times for 204 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 7.8 yards per carry.

Crowell's limited usage drew attention after Alabama's win over Mississippi State, where he received three carries but produced 49 yards. Touchdown Alabama Magazine reported that fans and former Alabama linebacker Reggie Ragland questioned why the freshman was not receiving more opportunities.

Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb said Crowell is still developing his knowledge of Alabama's system after missing significant practice time because of injuries. Grubb said the freshman's improvement in pass protection has helped increase trust in his ability to play.

"EJ's still growing into the game plans. There's parts that are difficult at times to have him on the field when he doesn't have the whole offense down. But he's getting there, and he's fighting his tail off to learn." said Ryan Grubb, Alabama offensive coordinator.

Running backs coach Robert Gillespie has emphasized patience while Crowell continues adjusting from high school football to Alabama's offense. Gillespie pointed to former Alabama running back Derrick Henry's freshman season as an example of development over time.

"He's patient, he's humble. I think everybody sees a five star and thinks all these guys are movie stars because of that, but that kid is very humble." said Robert Gillespie, Alabama running backs coach.

Gillespie added that Crowell understands the importance of becoming a complete running back beyond his ability to create plays with the ball.

"That's what it's about: everybody knows he's a guy when you touch the ball, he can make a play, but he understands that in order to be a great back, he has to do all the small things when he doesn't have the ball." said Robert Gillespie, Alabama running backs coach.

The Alabama assistant coach said he has discussed patience and development with Crowell and fellow freshman running back Trae'shawn Brown while referencing Henry's early career.

"I meet with TB and EJ everyday, and yesterday I shared with them that there was a great running back here in 2013 who had [35] carries for [382] yards as a freshman," said Robert Gillespie, Alabama running backs coach.

"Those guys have that almost right now." said Robert Gillespie, Alabama running backs coach.

Gillespie continued by describing the patience required for young players and said Crowell has the talent and work habits to become a major contributor.

"The patience of a guy like him showed -- he's one of the greatest running backs to ever play here, or the greatest and going to be a Hall of Famer." said Robert Gillespie, Alabama running backs coach.

Alabama also has experienced production from Daniel Hill and Trae'shawn Brown. According to Saturday Down South, Hill has recorded 51 carries and Brown has 42 carries, while Crowell remains third in the rotation.