'Opportunity' key theme as Crimson Tide open spring slate

Alabama opened practice Monday without star edge rusher Dallas Turner and reserve linebacker Deontae Lawson, who will miss all of the spring as they recover from surgeries.

Turner, a Freshman All-American in 2021, had four sacks and eight tackles for loss last season. His role could expand after Will Anderson Jr., his fellow edge rusher the last two years, left for the NFL, where he's expected to be a top-10 pick.

Coach Nick Saban said there "shouldn't be any issues for [Turner and Lawson] moving forward." He didn't say what the surgeries were for.

Reserve running back Roydell Williams, who ran for 250 yards and four touchdowns last season, and backup defensive back DeVonta Smith, who appeared…