The University of Alabama football team put on extra equipment just in time for extra heat at Monday’s practice, working in shells (shoulder pads) for the first time.
The Crimson Tide continued to be at near full-strength but three players — tight end Miller Forristall (foot), defensive end LaBryan Ray (foot) and defensive back Nigel Knott (undisclosed medical) — continued to be out of practice.
Ray is expected back “in a week or so,” according to Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban; in his absence, freshman DJ Dale (who worked with the Crimson Tide in the spring) is with the first unit defensive line.
Several players who were held out or limited in Saturday’s practice — running back Najee Harris, wide receiver Xavier Williams and cornerback Jalyn Armour-Davis among them — were back in action on Monday.
There was one position switch as sophomore Chadarius Townsend, who had been working at running back since the spring, was back at wide receiver.
Terrell Lewis, making a comeback from 2018 knee surgery, continues to look impressive, particularly bringing the pass rush off the edge.
Former Alabama head coach and athletic director Ray Perkins was a visitor at Monday’s practice.
Saban will hold his next media opportunity on Wednesday afternoon.
Reach Cecil Hurt at cecil@tidesports.com or 205-722-0225.
