The Alabama Crimson Tide will have a defense that looks very different in 2026. The entire front seven outside of Yhonzae Pierre will likely have different starters. Players like James Smith and Qua Russaw seem to be headed up north, while the inside backer duo from 2025 heads to the league.

The cornerback position is one of the few that should return starters in 2025, with Zabien Brown and Dijon Lee. The questions in the secondary have been related to the safety position. Well, Monday afternoon gave us an answer.

Bray Hubbard returning to Alabama for 2026 season

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Bray Hubbard, alongside Keon Sabb, formed one of the best safety duos in the SEC last season. While Sabb hasn’t announced his plans for 2026, there is a good chance he will go to the NFL Draft, which was largely the expectation for Hubbard.

He’s not a traditional safety by any sense, working the middle of the field and running the alley as more of a hybrid player that can pursue from depth. His experience, knowledge, and above all else, leadership, will be a critical factor for Alabama in 2026, something A to Z Sports contributor Josh Taylor agrees with.

“Getting back Bray Hubbard wasn’t expected, but it’s a huge boost to a defense that will have a lot of new pieces up front. Having an experienced vet on the backend who can direct everyone as the vocal leader will help navigate all the bumps in the road that can pop up early in the season.

“Hubbard is also a ball hawk with four interceptions and three forced fumbles in 2025. He can fly around in coverage and crash downhill to set the tone in the run game. Wommack just got his biggest chess piece back on defense.” – Taylor

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