“DOMINANCE DECODED — Alabama DT Tim Keenan III Opens Up to Johnny Congdon on What Fuels the Crimson Tide’s Relentless Power”

Tim Keenan III has never been one to seek the spotlight, but when the Alabama defensive tackle sat down with Johnny Congdon, it became clear that his journey and mindset offer insight into what continues to make the Crimson Tide one of college football’s most formidable forces. In a wide-ranging, honest, and revealing conversation, Keenan peeled back the layers of Alabama’s identity under new head coach Kalen DeBoer, explained what fuels his personal fire, and detailed how the Tide are maintaining their signature dominance even in the face of monumental change.

Keenan, a powerful 6-foot-2, 315-pound lineman, enters the upcoming season not just as a returning starter, but as one of the unquestioned emotional leaders of the defense. When asked about stepping into a bigger leadership role, Keenan didn’t shy away from the responsibility. “It’s not just about playing your position anymore,” he said. “It’s about bringing the younger guys along, making sure they understand the standard. Because here at Alabama, the standard doesn’t change.”

The “standard” has been a recurring theme for the Crimson Tide, even with the retirement of legendary head coach Nick Saban earlier this year. Keenan acknowledged the magnitude of that transition. “Coach Saban is the greatest of all time,” he said. “We all know that. What he built here was more than just football. It was a culture of accountability, toughness, and precision. So when Coach DeBoer came in, the question was never about replacing Coach Saban. That’s impossible. The question was—how do we carry on what he established, and how do we evolve with it?”

According to Keenan, DeBoer has earned the locker room’s trust quickly. “He came in with respect. Not just for the program, but for the players and everything we’ve been through. And he’s smart. He knows how to win. He listens. He’s not trying to be Coach Saban—he’s trying to be himself and help us succeed. That’s all you can ask for.”

As a former three-star prospect out of Birmingham’s Ramsay High School, Keenan has climbed the depth chart not by flash but through pure grit and constant growth. “It’s been a grind,” he admitted. “There were days I didn’t think I’d ever be a starter here. You see all these five-star guys coming in every year, and it’s easy to get lost in it. But I had people in my corner—my family, my high school coaches, and then Coach Roach here at Bama. They kept pushing me.”

Freddie Roach, Alabama’s defensive line coach and a former Tide player himself, has been instrumental in Keenan’s development. “Coach Roach is like a big brother and a drill sergeant rolled into one,” Keenan joked. “He demands a lot, but he’s been where we are. He knows what it takes. He’s always honest, always pushing for better.”

Keenan’s breakout moment came during the 2023 season when he became a fixture on the interior defensive line, helping Alabama secure another SEC Championship and a berth in the College Football Playoff. But Keenan is not satisfied with past accomplishments. “Last year was good,” he said. “But good isn’t good enough here. We didn’t win the national title. That’s the goal. Always.”

It’s that relentless drive for perfection that defines Alabama’s culture, and Keenan embodies it fully. In the weight room, he’s one of the hardest workers. On film study days, he’s always front row. Teammates describe him as a quiet warrior—someone who lets his play speak volumes but isn’t afraid to hold others accountable. “I’m not gonna scream or put on a show,” he said. “But if something needs to be said, I’ll say it. We’re all grown men in here. If you’re not bringing your best, someone has to check that. And I expect the same in return.”

As for the defense, Keenan said fans should expect a slightly new look under the revamped coaching staff but with the same ferocity Alabama is known for. “We’re gonna be aggressive,” he explained. “We’re not just sitting back and reacting—we’re dictating. We’re setting the tone up front. That’s what Coach Roach has been drilling into us. Strike first, strike hard.”

Keenan also offered insight into how Alabama’s locker room has handled the influx of transfer players and the realities of NIL. “It’s a different era now,” he acknowledged. “But it’s still football. Whether you’ve been here three years or came in last month, once you step on that field, none of that matters. Can you play? Can you do your job? That’s what counts. NIL stuff, that’s between you and your brand. But in this locker room, respect is earned by what you do every day.”

One of the more touching moments in the interview came when Keenan spoke about his roots in Birmingham and what it means to represent his home state. “It’s everything,” he said, eyes narrowing with emotion. “When I put on that jersey, I’m not just playing for Alabama. I’m playing for my city, for every little kid who thinks they’re too small, too slow, or not good enough. I was that kid. I want them to see that if you work, if you believe, you can make it.”

That sense of purpose fuels Keenan’s offseason grind. He’s added muscle, improved his flexibility, and worked with nutritionists to stay at peak performance. “I’m in the best shape of my life,” he said confidently. “I’ve been working with our strength staff, doing extra on the side. Because when fall comes, I want to be unstoppable.”

While Keenan was careful not to make bold predictions, it was clear that he believes this Alabama team has what it takes to compete for another national championship. “We know people are doubting us,” he said. “They think Bama’s done. That we’re slipping. That just fuels us even more. Every practice, every rep—it’s personal now. We’re coming.”

As the conversation wound down, Congdon asked what message Keenan would give to Alabama fans. Keenan leaned forward, his voice calm but powerful. “Trust us. Believe in this team. We’ve been working in silence. But when that whistle blows, you’ll see. Bama football isn’t going anywhere. We’re just getting started.”

In many ways, Keenan’s words are a microcosm of the program he represents—focused, relentless, grounded in tradition but hungry to evolve. His personal journey from under-recruited high school player to SEC defensive anchor is proof that development still matters in an era often dominated by hype and stars. And his presence in the heart of the Alabama defense will be a key factor in how the Tide navigate a new chapter in their storied legacy.

There’s no doubt that Tim Keenan III is ready for the spotlight now—not because he craves it, but because he’s earned it. With players like him setting the tone, Alabama’s foundation remains as strong as ever. And as Keenan himself made clear, dominance at Alabama isn’t talked about—it’s built, one snap at a time.