The highly anticipated return of AK Dear is set to provide a massive boost to the Alabama Crimson Tide football backfield. The explosive sophomore running back has been forced to watch from the sidelines through the early part of the 2026 season, recovering from a frustrating high-ankle sprain suffered during the team’s very first scrimmage of fall camp in mid-August. Prior to the setback, Dear was arguably the standout star of August practices, showcasing the unique blend of power and breakaway speed that made him a prized recruit.Fortunately for the Crimson Tide, his extended absence is finally coming to an end. Dear has been making solid progress behind the scenes with the medical staff, hitting all his major rehabilitation milestones ahead of schedule. The clearest indicator of his recovery came last weekend when he successfully participated in full pre-game warmups on Saban Field. While the coaching staff exercised caution by holding him out for one final week, head coach Kalen DeBoer has confirmed that Dear is nearing his 2026 debut against South Carolina. Reintroducing a healthy, fresh AK Dear into the offense gives the Tide a multi-dimensional ground attack just as the grueling SEC schedule intensifies.
