In a significant achievement for any player representing Alabama, linebacker Deontae Lawson has accepted an invitation to participate in the 2026 Panini Senior Bowl. This honor holds special meaning for Lawson, as he hails from Mobile, Alabama, the host city for the annual event.
Lawson officially confirmed his participation on Thursday. He previously showcased his talent at Mobile Christian during his high school years, located just a short drive from Hancock Whitney Stadium, where the Senior Bowl will be held. Since joining the Crimson Tide as a redshirt freshman in 2022, Lawson has made a considerable impact on Alabama”s defense.
This season, he has recorded 75 total tackles, including three tackles for loss, two fumble recoveries, and a forced fumble. As he prepares for the upcoming NFL draft in April, Lawson will have the opportunity to compete in his hometown one last time, adding a personal touch to this significant milestone in his football career.
Looking ahead, the weekend”s events include a women”s basketball matchup against Jackson State on Saturday at 3 PM CT, broadcasted on the SEC Network from Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
Additionally, significant historical milestones for Alabama football have occurred on December 12 throughout the years. On this date in 1925, the team accepted an invitation to play in the Rose Bowl against Washington, then known as the Purple Tornadoes. Coach Wallace Wade“s squad indicated their acceptance on December 4, planning to depart Tuscaloosa on December 19, with a journey that included stops in St. Louis, Kansas City, and the Grand Canyon before reaching Pasadena for the January 1 game.
In 1986, Coach Ray Perkins and Tampa Bay Buccaneers owner Hugh Culverhouse publicly denied rumors of Perkins leaving Alabama to take the head coaching position with the Buccaneers. Fast forward to 2009, when running back Mark Ingram Jr. made history by winning Alabama”s first Heisman Trophy, followed by Derrick Henry“s victory of the second Heisman for Alabama in 2015.
