Alabama won’t be getting outside linebacker Terrell Lewis back against Oklahoma on Saturday, but he’ll be back in crimson next season.
Coach Nick Saban said Lewis and outside linebacker Chris Allen are on schedule with their rehab but aren’t cleared to play against the Sooners. Lewis injured his ACL in July while Allen had an ACL injury in fall camp in August. Both have been doing individual drills during the open portion of Alabama’s recent practices.
“They’re doing fine,” Saban said. “They’re right where they’re supposed to be.”
Losing Lewis and Allen before the season damaged Alabama’s outside linebacker depth significantly. Senior Christian Miller and junior Anfernee Jennings have remained healthy as the starters with senior Jamey Mosley providing depth. Both Lewis and Allen would have played a role if healthy, though.
“I was really getting excited for (Allen),” Lewis said. “It was a bummer for me when he got hurt. I knew that I would have to take him under my wing. This was his first time ever having surgery and stuff. Just helping him out and being a big brother, helping him get through the healing process.”
Both players will be able to redshirt this season, making Lewis a redshirt junior and Allen a redshirt sophomore next fall. Lewis would have entered the 2018 season as an NFL draft prospect with standout size and athleticism.
He’d be eligible to enter the 2019 draft if he chose, but said he’ll be back in Tuscaloosa for another season. Lewis missed most of 2018 after suffering an injury in the season opener. Next fall could be his first chance to put together a full season.
“I thought about (the NFL), but I want to play,” Lewis said. “I want to have a legacy when I leave Alabama. I’ll be back.”
Cornerback Trevon Diggs, who is out for the season with a broken foot, is also continuing his rehab. His recovery is also on schedule; he could begin running soon.
“I feel good,” Diggs said. “I’m happy I can use both of my legs again.”
