Saban: UAB transfer Jaylen Key is ‘instinctive,’ adds versatility to Tide secondary

Published Aug. 03, 2023, 6:27 p.m.
By Nick Alvarez |
Amid an offseason spent discussing the future of Alabama’s quarterback room or its set of pass rushers, it’s almost easy to forget that among the 10 starters the Tide has to replace, a few important spots are open in the secondary.
Through the 2023 recruiting cycle and spring transfer window, Alabama brought in seven new defensive backs. Five of those are freshmen and while Georgia five-star Caleb Downs worked his way into a conversation for playing time, the unit is likely to rely on the quick adjustments of two transfers: UAB’s Jaylen Key and Louisiana-Lafayette’s Trey Amos.
Speaking to the media after the Tide’s first practice of fall camp, Saban broke down Key’s ability:
“Jaylen is learning the system, but he is an instinctive player. He does have good size. I think he can play in the deep part of the field, and I think he can play in the box. I think that he’s learning, but he’s got a great attitude and he’s smart. And I think the experience that he has, because he has played before and played some games at this level in the SEC, will really help him develop. I think he’s gonna be a guy that can really help us and contribute. I’m not sure exactly what role yet.”
Key recorded 60 tackles a year ago for the Blazers with three interceptions and a sack. His best game was on Nov. 19 at LSU when he made 12 stops, including nine solo tackles and one for a loss.
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Saban noted the team “needed” versatility in the room. Last year, roles were clearly defined with Kool-Aid McKinstry and Terrion Arnold settling at boundary corners and DeMarcco Hellams, Jordan Battle and Malachi Moore at safety. The unit performed well — Hellams and Battle were drafted, McKinstry is a projected first-rounder — but there are new faces to slot in this fall, specifically at safety.
Downs, Kristian Story and Earl Little Jr. each got notable reps during A-Day and have a chance to be figured in the rotation. Amos posted a team-high eight pass breakups at cornerback a year ago for the Rajin’ Cajuns.
While a depth chart shouldn’t be expected anytime soon, Saban did give a hint as to what they’ll look for ahead of the Sept. 2 opener against Middle Tennessee State.
“I like the two guys that we were able to add,” Saban said. " ... We’re moving a lot of guys around to different positions, but we’re trying to find the best five guys to sort of play the best spots in the back end.”