Update: Kalen DeBoer says Alabama running back Jam Miller had surgery after suffering an injury during camp.

Update: Kalen DeBoer says Alabama running back Jam Miller had surgery after suffering an injury during camp.

Alabama running back **Jam Miller**, who led the Crimson Tide in rushing yards among returning players, recently underwent a **medical procedure** after suffering an **upper-body injury** during a preseason scrimmage. The incident occurred during Alabama’s closed camp session at Bryant-Denny Stadium on Saturday. On Sunday, head coach **Kalen DeBoer** confirmed the injury and procedure but didn’t provide a specific timeline for Miller’s return. However, reports suggest he’ll **miss the team’s season opener against Florida State** on August 30 and possibly more games early in the season.

Miller’s injury is a setback for Alabama’s offense, especially given that he was expected to be the lead back this fall. Last season, Miller rushed for **668 yards and scored seven touchdowns**, emerging as a reliable playmaker. With his absence, the Crimson Tide will need others to step up and fill that production—especially in high-stakes early matchups.

Several players are now in line for increased roles in Miller’s absence. **Richard Young**, a redshirt sophomore, is considered the likely candidate to take over starting duties. Though he dealt with a leg injury last year, Young has reportedly looked solid in camp. Another player to watch is **Daniel Hill**, a powerful sophomore with solid hands, making him a dual-threat option out of the backfield. Coach DeBoer has specifically praised Hill’s ability to catch passes and handle blocking responsibilities.

Additionally, **Dre Washington**, a redshirt senior who transferred from Louisiana–Lafayette, brings experience and versatility. Over three seasons with the Ragin’ Cajuns, he amassed more than 1,300 rushing yards and showed the ability to contribute both on the ground and in the passing game. He could play a key role while Miller recovers.

Alabama also has young talent in the pipeline. Freshman **AK Dear** and redshirt freshman **Kevin Riley** are part of the running back group, though it’s uncertain how much they’ll contribute right away due to their inexperience. Their roles may grow depending on performance and team needs.

Coach DeBoer has remained confident despite the setback, emphasizing the team’s depth and readiness to adjust. While he acknowledged that losing a veteran like Miller is unfortunate, he expressed belief in the ability of the rest of the running back room to handle the increased workload.

The injury comes at a time when Alabama is undergoing changes under new leadership. With DeBoer taking over for legendary coach Nick Saban, every piece of the roster is under the microscope, and injuries to key players can disrupt preseason plans. Still, Alabama’s reputation for developing depth may be its saving grace in this situation.

In the short term, Alabama will rely on a committee of backs to maintain offensive balance. How well they adapt without Miller could be a key storyline in the early part of the 2025 season. While there’s no official word on how long he’ll be out, DeBoer made it clear that Miller is expected to recover fully and rejoin the team later in the season.