The Crimson Tide football team is no stranger to success, with numerous national championships and top-ranked recruiting classes under their belt. But as with any successful team, change is inevitable. This offseason, that change comes in the form of a major shift on the offensive side of the ball.
With veteran tight end Josh Cuevas leaving for the NFL Draft, head coach Kalen DeBoer and the Alabama coaching staff are faced with the challenge of replacing a key starter. And the man they are turning to for the task is none other than sophomore Kaleb Edwards.
Edwards, a highly-touted recruit out of high school, showed flashes of his potential in limited playing time last season. But with Cuevas’ departure, he is now expected to step up and take on a much bigger role in the Crimson Tide’s offense.
The 6-foot-4, 245-pound tight end possesses a rare combination of size, speed, and athleticism that makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. And with a full offseason to work with the first-team offense, Edwards is poised to make a major impact in 2026.
But this is not just about replacing a talented player like Cuevas. This is about building on the foundation that has been laid by the Alabama football program. And DeBoer knows that Edwards is more than capable of doing just that.
“Kaleb is a special talent, there’s no doubt about that,” DeBoer said. “He’s got all the physical tools to be a dominant tight end in this league. But what sets him apart is his work ethic and his dedication to improving every day. We have no doubt that he will rise to the challenge and become a key piece of our offense.”
Edwards’ potential was on full display in the Crimson Tide’s spring game, where he hauled in six catches for 105 yards and a touchdown. His combination of speed and size made him a matchup nightmare for the defense, and he showed a strong connection with quarterback Bryce Young.
But it’s not just about his physical abilities. Edwards has also been working diligently on improving his route running and blocking techniques, making him a well-rounded threat in the offense.
“I’ve been watching a lot of film and working with the coaches to fine-tune my skills,” said Edwards. “I know I have big shoes to fill with Josh leaving, but I’m ready to step up and do whatever it takes to help our team win.”
And while Cuevas’ departure may leave a void in the offense, it also presents an opportunity for Edwards to establish himself as a leader on the team. As a sophomore, he may not have the experience of a veteran player, but his talent and work ethic have already earned the respect of his teammates and coaches.
“Kaleb is a great kid and a hard worker,” said Bryce Young. “He’s always looking to improve and help the team in any way he can. I have no doubt that he will be a key contributor to our offense this season.”
The departure of a key starter is always a difficult situation for any team. But with the talent and potential that Kaleb Edwards possesses, the Crimson Tide offense is set to continue its dominant ways in 2026. And with a young core of talented players, the future looks bright for Alabama football. Roll Tide!