Kalen DeBoer Makes First Statement After Jam Miller’s Injury

Kalen DeBoer Makes First Statement After Jam Miller’s Injury originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Alabama Crimson Tide fans have been waiting to see how their team would look under second-year head coach Kalen DeBoer, but the Tide hit a bump in the road during summer practice.

Running back Jam Miller suffered an upper-body injury in the second scrimmage of camp, an unfortunate setback for a player who was expected to carry a big role in the offense this season.

DeBoer released a statement confirming Miller underwent a procedure Saturday evening, and while the medical team expects a full recovery, the timeline for his return is unclear.

The news immediately raises questions about how Alabama will adjust in the backfield and what it means for the overall development of the offense.

Statement from Kalen DeBoer: “Jam Miller suffered an upper-body injury in Saturday’s scrimmage and went in for a procedure on Saturday evening. Jam should recover fully with a timetable for his return yet to be determined.”

— Mike Rodak (@mikerodak) August 17, 2025

What Does Miller's Injury Mean?

The Crimson Tide offense is already in the middle of a transition under DeBoer and first-year starting quarterback Ty Simpson. Losing Miller disrupts some of that continuity. He was expected to be a reliable contributor who could take pressure off Simpson and help set the tone on the ground. Last season, he led all running backs for the Crimson Tide with 668 rushing yards.

Alabama’s offense thrives when the run game opens up opportunities for big plays in the passing attack. Without Miller, the Tide will need to find a rhythm with other backs. That puts pressure on both the players and the coaching staff to adjust. Sophomores Richard Young and Daniel Hill appear to be ready to take the reins with Dre Washington, a senior transfer from the Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns, another option.

Alabama’s Road Ahead

Injuries are never easy to manage, but Alabama has always prided itself on depth. DeBoer’s challenge is to make sure the offense doesn’t lose momentum while Miller recovers. Fans will be watching closely to see how Young, Hill and Washington respond to the opportunity, and whether the Tide can keep their offensive balance heading into the season.

Miller’s health will remain a major storyline. If he returns sooner than expected, Alabama could regain one of its most important weapons at a critical point in the year. Until then, the Tide’s backfield will need to prove it can carry the load.

When Does Alabama Open the 2025 Season?

The Alabama Crimson Tide will start its 2025 season on the road by visiting the Florida State Seminoles. That game is slated for Aug 30. Alabama then heads home to host UL Monroe Warhawks on Sept. 6.

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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 17, 2025, where it first appeared.