By Mmesoma 
Alabama senior linebacker Deontae Lawson summed up the sentiment at SEC Media Days when he said, “Year two, I mean, we’re all for DeBoer,” reinforcing a message echoed across the roster. In his first year at Tuscaloosa, head coach Kalen DeBoer navigated a challenging 9–4 season with poise and earned the unwavering confidence of his players .
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🔹 Calm Confidence in Year Two
DeBoer began his tenure by acknowledging the steep expectations left behind by Nick Saban and admitting his first season fell short of playoff aspirations. Nevertheless, he emphasized progress, highlighting internal growth over public perception .
Lawson praised DeBoer’s composure, saying it “helped the team shake off its most losses since 2007” and positioned Alabama for a stronger follow-up season . Offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor echoed that assurance, noting DeBoer’s comfort level has grown immensely in year two .
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🔹 Theme of Continuity and Physicality
During the Media Days session, DeBoer laid out a clear vision for 2025: one driven by physical play and mental toughness. He credited the offensive line—anchored by standout Proctor—as the foundation for Alabama’s rebound .
With 17 seniors returning (up from 8 last year), DeBoer believes the team’s continuity will be a key catalyst. Despite losing NFL-caliber talent, he expressed confidence that the returning core is built for success .
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🔹 Player Buy-In and Cultural Shift
On the sideline, DeBoer’s fingerprints are now obvious. As linebacker Lawson put it at spring practice, “He’s still laid back … but his fingerprints are on everything now—and you better be locked in” . That blend of leadership and player responsibility seems to have resonated deeply.
This off-season, players have demonstrated their trust not through words but through relentless action: fewer public statements, more focused reps. DeBoer credited this culture shift to maturity and collective accountability .
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🔹 What to Expect from the Tide
Rebound Intentions: DeBoer openly acknowledges the disappointment of missing the College Football Playoff and wants to correct it.
Senior Leadership: With seasoned players owning the locker room and faith in their coach, Alabama looks set to compete for SEC dominance.
Sharper Edge: DeBoer’s intensified approach—adding firmness to his calm style—signals a no-nonsense attitude internalized by the roster.
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Bottom Line: The message from Alabama’s locker room is loud and clear—they trust Kalen DeBoer. Year two isn’t just about continuity—it’s about proving that the calm, confident culture DeBoer built off the field now delivers results on it.
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