Following one of the worst rushing seasons in program history, Alabama’s running backs and offensive line returned to the field for Saturday’s A-Day scrimmage. Running back Trae’shawn Brown in particular stood out.
Brown is a three-star true freshman from Huntsville, Texas. After entering the day as a little-known member of the team, he finished as arguably the top performer at his position.
Reminiscent of former Crimson Tide running back Josh Jacobs, Brown is listed at 5 feet, 10 inches tall and 201 pounds. He is just 11 pounds lighter than Jacobs was when he began his career at Alabama.
He showcased his low center of gravity, able to keep his balance in between the tackles and maneuver around defenders. Brown finished the scrimmage with an unofficial six carries for 19 yards.
“He looked super energetic,” offensive guard Michael Carroll said. “He continues to improve every day.”
Brown also shined in the passing game.
Early in quarterback Keelon Russell’s first drive of the day, he found Brown for a 12-yard first down conversion. Later on, he turned back-to-back checkdowns into first downs.
“He’s low to the ground [and] makes people miss,” defensive back Dijon Lee Jr. said. “He’s been putting in work in the weight room, so it’s hard to bring him down.”
Brown finished with five catches for 50 yards on six targets.
It will be interesting to see what his role is in a position group that returns Daniel Hill, Kevin Riley and AK Dear and adds a — presumably — healthy EJ Crowell into the mix, but it will be hard to keep a player of his talent off the field long.
“The freshman came in and just worked,” Lee said.
