KNOXVILLE, Tenn. − Alabama football freshman RB EJ Crowell left the Crimson Tide sideline for the locker room with an apparent injury early in the second quarter of UA's road game at Tennessee on Oct. 17.
The nature of the injury is unclear, as Crowell was walking under his own power with a team trainer, and without a limp.
One of the Crimson Tide's top signees in the 2026 signing class, Crowell had carried just one time in the contest, for 1 yard, at the time of his removal. The Volunteers led 9-0 at the time. Crowell has been a backup this season, working behind starter Daniel Hill and fellow freshman Trae'shawn Brown.
Alabama offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb had said as recently as last week that the coaching staff was working to develop Crowell to the point where he could touch the ball 10 times per game.
Reach Tuscaloosa News columnist Chase Goodbread at cgoodbread@gannett.com. Follow on X @chasegoodbread.
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This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Alabama football RB EJ Crowell exits Tennessee game with apparent injury