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New Alabama assistant Mike Locksley called a ‘difference-maker’

As expected, Alabama announced Monday that Mike Locksley now is a full-time assistant, and Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Arrelious Benn is a big fan of the hire.

Benn, 28, just finished his sixth season in the NFL. A decade ago, Benn was a five-star recruit committed to Notre Dame. Locksley changed that – and Benn remains appreciative. Benn switched his pledge from the Fighting Irish and signed with Illinois, where Locksley was offensive coordinator under coach Ron Zook.

Alabama coach Nick Saban hired Locksley as an offensive analyst last year. With Mario Cristobal headed to Oregon, an on-field coaching spot was open, and Saban tabbed Locksley for the job.