BREAKING NEWS: Alabama Legends John Hannah, DeVonta Smith, and Derrick Henry Deliver Powerful Message of Support Ahead of 2025–2026 Season
As the 2025–2026 college football season approaches, the Alabama Crimson Tide are gaining more than just new recruits—they’re receiving an emotional and motivational surge from some of the greatest names in program history. In a stunning show of unity and pride, three of Alabama’s most celebrated legends—Pro Football Hall of Famer John Hannah, Heisman Trophy winner DeVonta Smith, and NFL rushing champion Derrick Henry—have publicly declared their unwavering support for the Crimson Tide’s next chapter.
Each legend took time to speak out in favor of the new direction of the program under head coach Kalen DeBoer, praising the rising stars, the coaching staff’s vision, and the return to Alabama’s core identity: dominance through discipline, unity, and legacy.
> “Alabama football isn’t just a program,” said John Hannah, the iconic offensive lineman often called the greatest to ever play the position. “It’s a brotherhood, a tradition built on excellence. I see that spirit returning—and I believe this team is about to remind the world who the Crimson Tide really are.”
For a Hall of Famer like Hannah, who laid the foundation for Alabama’s national reputation during the early years of Coach Bear Bryant’s dynasty, his endorsement speaks volumes. But it didn’t stop there.
DeVonta Smith, affectionately known as “The Slim Reaper” and the 2020 Heisman Trophy winner, also voiced his full support. Now an NFL star with the Philadelphia Eagles, Smith reflected on the role Alabama played in shaping his career and expressed excitement about what he’s seeing in the new class of athletes.
> “When I look at guys like Keelon Russell, Ryan Williams, and this coaching staff, I see fire,” Smith said. “I see the next wave of greatness coming. My advice to them: stay hungry, stay humble, and wear that ‘A’ with pride. We’ll be watching—and cheering.”
And then came Derrick Henry, the 2015 Heisman winner and one of the most dominant running backs in both college and NFL history. Known for his physicality and leadership, Henry issued a direct message to the current Alabama squad.
> “Pressure makes diamonds,” Henry said. “This is Alabama—expectations are high for a reason. But you’re not out there alone. Every one of us who wore that jersey is with you. It’s your time now. Make it count.”
The collective show of support from these three all-time greats has sparked a wave of energy throughout the Alabama fan base. On social media, fans have dubbed the moment “The Legacy Blessing,” as former champions pass the torch to the next generation of Crimson warriors.
This public backing serves as both a vote of confidence and a reminder of the stakes. At Alabama, it’s not just about winning games—it’s about honoring a legacy of greatness that stretches from Bear Bryant to Nick Saban and now into the DeBoer era.
With the season looming, one thing is clear: the 2025–2026 Crimson Tide won’t just be carrying their own ambitions onto the field—they’ll be carrying the pride, pressure, and power of legends who paved the way.
Ro
ll Tide. The legacy lives on.
