# Why AK Dear Isn't Playing

> Alabama's AK Dear gets minimal carries after injury, coach says he'll play soon.
- Title: Why AK Dear Isn't Playing · Alabama Crimson Tide On SI
- Summary: Alabama's AK Dear gets minimal carries after injury, coach says he'll play soon. Alabama running back AK Dear has been given only two carries in five games…
- Keywords: ak dear, alabama crimson tide, kalan deboer, running back, football, nfl, sports, Dear, Isn't, Playing, Alabama Crimson Tide On SI
- Source: Alabama Crimson Tide On SI — https://si.com/college/alabama/football/why-isnt-ak-dear-playing
- Published: 2026-10-26T17:44:10+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: ak dear, alabama crimson tide, kalan deboer, running back, football, nfl, sports
## AK Dear's injury
AK Dear was viewed as Alabama's likely feature back entering fall camp but got injured in August scrimmage.
## Minimal carries
Dear has been given just two carries over five games and hasn't gotten the ball in the last three weeks.
## Texas A&M game
In the 31-20 win over Texas A&M last Saturday, Dear didn't play a single snap with freshman EJ Crowell unavailable.
## Coach DeBoer update
Crimson Tide head coach Kalen DeBoer said Dear is gaining reps in practice with Kevin Riley and EJ Crowell out.
## Rushing numbers
The team's rushing numbers have fallen, Crowell got hurt, and Dear still hasn't gotten a chance to play.
## Next game
If Dear doesn't see the field next weekend in Baton Rouge, he won't play any significant role on this year's team.
## Key takeaway

Alabama running back AK Dear has been given only two carries in five games and won't play next weekend unless he gets more snaps.