**Alabama Football: 3 Potential Replacements for Jam Miller Following Injury Setback**

**Alabama Football: 3 Potential Replacements for Jam Miller Following Injury Setback**

With Alabama running back Jam Miller sidelined due to an upper-body injury sustained during a recent scrimmage, the Crimson Tide coaching staff is being forced to rethink its backfield rotation heading into the 2025 season opener against Florida State. Miller, who led the team in rushing attempts and touchdowns last year, was expected to be a cornerstone of Alabama’s offense under new head coach Kalen DeBoer. Now, the team must turn to other options, and three players have emerged as the most likely replacements: Richard Young, Daniel Hill, and Dre Washington.

### 1. **Richard Young – The Next Man Up**

Richard Young, a redshirt sophomore, is widely considered the front-runner to take over starting duties in Miller’s absence. A former five-star recruit, Young entered Alabama with significant hype but has been slowed by injuries and limited opportunities in his early seasons. Despite a quiet 2024 campaign, Young’s combination of power, size, and explosiveness makes him a natural fit to lead the backfield.

Coaches have praised Young’s development over the offseason, particularly in ball security and vision between the tackles. His physical running style could give Alabama the tough yards it needs in short-yardage and goal-line situations. If he stays healthy, Young has the tools to not only replace Miller but potentially thrive in a featured role.

### 2. **Daniel Hill – The Versatile Playmaker**

Sophomore Daniel Hill is another promising candidate to take on a bigger role. While Hill lacks the experience of Young, he offers a skill set that stands out—especially in the passing game. Hill has shown flashes during spring and fall practices of being a dynamic pass-catching threat out of the backfield, which could open up new play-calling opportunities for offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan.

Hill’s agility, quickness, and ability to line up in multiple spots make him a valuable chess piece. Though he may not handle a full workload between the tackles, Hill could serve as a third-down back or be deployed in screen-heavy packages to take pressure off new quarterback Ty Simpson. If Hill can continue to develop as a blocker, his role could expand quickly.

### 3. **Dre Washington – The Experienced Transfer**

Dre Washington, a transfer from Louisiana, is the most experienced of the three potential replacements. With multiple years of starting experience at the Group of Five level, Washington enters the SEC as a seasoned runner with a well-rounded game. While he may not have the same upside as Young or Hill, Washington brings reliability, especially in pass protection and situational awareness—qualities that could earn him immediate playing time.

His ability to read defenses and pick up blitzes could be invaluable with a new quarterback under center and an offensive line still gelling. Washington’s proven track record makes him a safe option, particularly if Alabama looks to lean on experience early in the season.

### The Road Ahead

Although replacing Jam Miller is no easy task, Alabama’s running back room remains deep and talented. Each of these three backs brings something different to the table, and it’s likely DeBoer will use a committee approach early in the season. As competition intensifies during fall camp, the Tide will look to find the right balance to keep their championship hopes alive.