Geno VanDeMark in for Jaeden Roberts: Takeaways from Alabama football's final fall open practice
Alabama football held its eighth and final open fall practice on Tuesday morning.
The Crimson Tide and coach Kalen DeBoer are just over a week away from kicking off the 2024 season on Aug. 31, hosting Western Kentucky at Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The viewing period lasted about 15 minutes with reporters only able to view the offense and special teams as the defense was practicing inside.
Here are takeaways and observations from Alabama's eighth and final open practice of fall camp.
Geno VanDeMark filling in at right guard for Jaeden Roberts
Right guard Jaeden Roberts injured his hand in Saturday's scrimmage, with his mother taking to X, formerly Twitter, on Sunday saying he was out of surgery and on his way home. In Robert's place, in the offensive line on Tuesday morning was redshirt-junior Geno VanDeMark, who joined the Crimson Tide's first-team offensive line with (from left to right): Kadyn Proctor, Tyler Booker, Parker Brailsford and Wilkin Formby.
Good morning Bama Fan Family!! Mr Jaeden Roberts aka.. My wittle guy 🥹 is out of surgery and on his way home. Thank you all for the kind words, prayers and positive vibes. Their bodies endure so much and they need all the prayers and support they can get! Thanks again! #RollTide pic.twitter.com/i8OAlsX4NH
— Twanisha_❤️Mom (@riley_twanisha) August 18, 2024
DeBoer was asked about Roberts and his availability following the scrimmage on Saturday, telling reporters that he is expected to be back by Game 1 vs. Western Kentucky.
"Jaeden will be able to play Week 1," DeBoer said. "It won’t be anything where he’ll be out for a game or anything."
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General practice notes
Tight end C.J. Dippre made a nice leaping catch during pass drills on about a 15-yard throw from Dylan Lonergan to the middle of the field. Dippre and the rest of the tight ends will likely be more active in the passing game in UA's new offense. Running back Jam Miller was also seen in a black non-contact jersey.
Media was also able to watch kickers get some reps with long snappers, with Graham Nicholson and Conor Talty each nailing all their attempts through the up-rights.
We got to see specialists working a bit this morning.
Here’s Graham Nicholson nailing one attempt. pic.twitter.com/Bzc87htiDY— Anna Snyder (@annaesnyder2) August 20, 2024
This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Alabama football: Takeaways from final open practice of fall camp
