BREAKING NEWS: Alabama Crimson Tide Receive Morale Boost as Legends John Hannah, DeVonta Smith, and Derrick Henry Publicly Declare Support Ahead of 2025-2026 Season
As the highly anticipated 2025-2026 college football season approaches, the Alabama Crimson Tide are already making headlines—but not just for their recruiting classes or preseason rankings. This time, the buzz comes from three of the most iconic figures in the program’s storied history: John Hannah, DeVonta Smith, and Derrick Henry.
These Crimson Tide legends—each a giant in their own era—have publicly thrown their support behind the current team, offering encouragement, guidance, and an unmistakable shot of morale for both players and fans alike. In a series of statements and social media posts that quickly went viral, the trio declared their unwavering belief in the team’s direction under new leadership and emphasized their continued commitment to the Alabama legacy.
Pro Football Hall of Famer John Hannah, regarded as one of the greatest offensive linemen in football history, shared his support during an interview with The Paul Finebaum Show.
“What Alabama represents is bigger than any one season. It’s about pride, discipline, and the standard Coach Bryant built—and that Saban carried forward. I see that same fire in this team, and I want them to know: the past is watching, and we believe in you.”
DeVonta Smith, the 2020 Heisman Trophy winner and a current star wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles, posted a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter):
“Crimson Tide forever. These boys got talent, but more importantly, they’ve got heart. Can’t wait to see them make history. Roll Tide.”
Meanwhile, Derrick Henry, the 2015 Heisman Trophy winner and current NFL rushing powerhouse, visited the team during summer workouts in Tuscaloosa. According to players and coaches, Henry spoke to the team about perseverance, sacrifice, and blocking out noise from critics.
“Y’all are the next generation. We laid the bricks, but it’s up to you to build the house,” Henry told the team. “Respect the jersey. Earn it every day.”
The current Crimson Tide roster, led by a mix of seasoned veterans and exciting young talent, has responded positively to the outreach from these legends. Several players have expressed on social media how much it means to receive backing from Alabama greats. Quarterback Tylen Watts, expected to lead the offense this season, tweeted:
“To hear from legends like Smith and Henry? That’s motivation on a whole other level. We’re gonna make Bama proud.”
Head coach Kalen DeBoer, entering his second season at the helm, called the support from alumni “invaluable.”
“To have guys like John, DeVonta, and Derrick standing behind us is powerful. They’re the embodiment of what Alabama football means. Their words carry weight—and their presence inspires.”
With kickoff just weeks away, Alabama is not only preparing for another championship push, but doing so with the strength of tradition behind them. The past, present, and future of the Crimson Tide have rarely felt more connected.
And with legends watching, mentoring, and believing—Roll Tide has never rung louder.
