Alabama is hiring Trent Simpson as an assistant defensive line coach, On3’s Pete Nakos has confirmed. Simpson previously worked under Brent Venables at Oklahoma. He will now leave Norman and make his way over to Tuscaloosa. A mid-spring ball staff addition for Kalen DeBoer and the Crimson Tide.

Simpson spent the last four seasons at OU. Three of those were as a defensive analyst. A promotion does come with the move to Alabama for him. He joins a group led by defensive coordinator Kane Wommack, who is entering his third season in the position. Freddie Roach is the defensive line coach, a position he has held since 2020 — dating back to the Nick Saban days.

There might already be some familiarity between Simpson and Alabama, given they went head-to-head on two occasions in 2025. One came in the regular season, when the Sooners rolled into Bryant-Denny Stadium and walked out with a signature victory. Simpson had to enjoy that one, especially since the Oklahoma defensive line put together a great performance. Unfortunately for him, the same cannot be said about the College Football Playoff rematch. Alabama controlled the game after going down 17-0, advancing into the quarterfinals.

We will see Simpson flip-flop sides of the matchup. DeBoer and Wommack might be hoping Simpson can continue to find success in an elevated position compared to what he did at Oklahoma.

Alabama defensive line getting different look heading into 2026 season

One of the program’s true leaders was on the defensive line in 2025. Tim Keenan was a big part of the culture for DeBoer, really setting the tone for everyone else. After all, Keenan was still a part of the Saban era and spent five seasons playing for Alabama.

Different faces are now going to need to step up moving forward. Some work was even done in the NCAA transfer portal to make sure an impact player came to Tuscaloosa. Terrance Green, from Oregon, was considered a major add for the Crimson Tide. Kedrick Bingley-Jones projects as somebody who can provide depth after spending time at Mississippi State.

Of course, some internal candidates can find themselves in a position to get on the field. London Simmons might be the biggest name of them all. He recorded 19 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and 1.5 tackles for a loss (the full sack and TFL came in a nonconference showdown vs. Wisconsin) as a true freshman.