Last week, the NCAA approved a blanket waiver granting former junior college athletes, like Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, an additional year of eligibility. This decision could prove highly advantageous for the Alabama Crimson Tide defense in the upcoming season. It paves the way for senior linebacker Justin Jefferson to return in 2025, potentially taking on an even larger role than he had this year. Jefferson, originally from Memphis, began his collegiate career at Pearl River Community College in Poplarville, MS, before transferring to Alabama in 2023. Ahead of the team’s Reliaquest Bowl matchup with Michigan, Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer commented on the possibility of Jefferson’s return. “I know he was really excited about the opportunity, which shows where his mindset is,” DeBoer said. “We’ve had conversations, and we’re confident that he’s eager to continue his college football career. Nothing’s official yet, but it was a significant announcement around Christmas.”
Pavia, a former JUCO player, filed a lawsuit against the NCAA in November, arguing that his time in JUCO shouldn’t count against his NCAA eligibility. A Tennessee federal judge granted him an injunction to play in 2025, prompting the NCAA to extend the blanket waiver, allowing athletes who would have exhausted their eligibility in the 2024-25 season an additional year.
As a result, Jefferson could return to Tuscaloosa after contributing significantly to Alabama’s defense this season. In a rotational role as the Mike linebacker, he recorded 52 tackles, two sacks, one forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. Defensive coordinator Kane Wommack expressed optimism about Jefferson’s return, noting, “We’re very hopeful that JJ will be back for next season. It’s something he wants to do, and we expect confirmation soon. Everything seems to be heading in the right direction.” Wommack added that Jefferson’s return would be crucial for the defense, especially with the potential departures of Jihad Campbell and Deontae Lawson.
With the addition of former Colorado linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green from the transfer portal, Alabama will have experienced depth at linebacker, with Jefferson’s return further strengthening the defense in 2025.
