In the 2025 season, Alabama’s offense was under pressure, with Ty Simpson sacked 28 times and the run game struggling. DeBoer and others cited production as the critical issue, emphasizing mindset, execution, and fundamentals in a room that will see many new faces this season. “It was about production. We know we gotta be better there,” DeBoer said, underscoring the urgency to clean up the line play.
Kapilovic’s initial year in DeBoer’s system showed progress—the number of sacks allowed dropped from 49 to 24—but the 2025 collapse was stark: 32 sacks allowed and a ground game averaging just 104.13 yards per game, leaving the unit near the bottom of the SEC. The decision to move on reflected DeBoer’s assessment that the line’s performance must improve to meet the program’s standards.
Even as the on-field unit faced criticism, Kapilovic assisted with recruiting, pulling in 11 new offensive linemen. DeBoer acknowledged the broader challenge: the line is a focal point for the coaching staff, and “we all gotta help our coaches learn the system quickly,” including contributions from DeBoer’s assistants such as Ryan Grubb.
The personnel shakeup extends beyond Kapilovic. Kapilovic’s departure leaves multiple vacancies on a lean UAB staff, joining JaMarcus Shephard’s move to Oregon State as head coach and Nick Sheridan’s shift to Michigan State as offensive coordinator. Alabama also faces a 2026 OL lineup overhaul with captain Parker Brailsford and All-American Kadyn Proctor moving on to the NFL, signaling a rebuild in both leadership and production.
Two names circulating as potential replacements for Kapilovic are Adrian Klemm and Scott Huff. Klemm, with an NFL-caliber background and coaching stints across college programs, has links to DeBoer dating back to their time together at Washington and recently served as an offensive assistant at USC. His son, Jalen, plays on the OL at Arizona State, continuing the family connection. Huff, who joined DeBoer’s staff in Washington before pursuing NFL opportunities with the Seahawks and later the Rams, could also be considered as a fit to stabilize the line in Tuscaloosa.
