Alabama OL Roq Montgomery on a More Disciplined Offseason: “It’s Not a Fashion Show. It’s Football.”

The Alabama Crimson Tide are entering a new era of discipline and accountability, and offensive lineman Roq Montgomery is making it clear that the team is taking things more seriously than ever.

During a recent interview, Montgomery emphasized that the team is “more dialed in” this offseason, citing a no-nonsense approach under the new coaching regime.

“You can’t be late to workouts no more. No more jewelry. No more necklaces. None of that. It’s not a fashion show. It’s football.”

His words reflect a major cultural shift within the program as Alabama looks to regain its edge following Nick Saban’s retirement and Kalen DeBoer’s arrival as head coach.

After falling short of a national championship last season, the Crimson Tide are focused on restoring their reputation as college football’s most dominant force—and it all starts with a disciplined offseason.

A New Era for Alabama Football

The transition from Nick Saban to Kalen DeBoer has been one of the most talked-about storylines of the college football offseason. After Saban’s legendary run, DeBoer steps in with big shoes to fill.

With that transition comes a new approach to team culture and discipline. Montgomery’s comments suggest that DeBoer and his coaching staff are implementing stricter expectations to ensure the team remains focused.

While Saban was already known for his tough, process-driven mentality, the team may have strayed at times in recent years, especially with the rise of NIL money, social media influence, and the evolving college football landscape.

Montgomery’s remarks about eliminating jewelry and tardiness show that Alabama is making a conscious effort to eliminate distractions and return to pure football.

This no-nonsense mentality could be a key factor in Alabama’s success moving forward.

Why Alabama Needed a Cultural Reset

Alabama has remained one of the top programs in the country, but the program has faced challenges in recent years that may have led to this renewed focus on discipline.

1. The Rise of NIL and Off-Field Distractions

With the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era in full swing, college football players now have access to endorsement deals, sponsorships, and financial opportunities that were unheard of just a few years ago.

While NIL is a positive development for players, it has also led to concerns that off-field interests are becoming a bigger priority than football.

By eliminating distractions like jewelry and lateness to workouts, Alabama’s new coaching staff is making it clear that players must prioritize football above all else.

2. Alabama’s Playoff Struggles

While Alabama has remained in national title contention, the team has not won a national championship since the 2020 season.

• In 2021, Alabama lost to Georgia in the National Championship Game.
• In 2022, Alabama missed the College Football Playoff entirely after two regular-season losses.
• In 2023, Alabama fell to Michigan in the CFP semifinals, ending their title hopes.

For a program accustomed to winning championships, these results were disappointing.

The program’s recent shortcomings may have been a wake-up call, leading to the decision to reestablish discipline and focus.

3. A New Coach, A New Standard

Kalen DeBoer is taking over a program that has been defined by greatness.

DeBoer led Washington to the National Championship Game last season, proving he can win at an elite level. However, stepping into Alabama comes with a different level of pressure and expectations.

His new emphasis on tighter discipline and accountability shows that he is not afraid to enforce high standards in his first season.

By eliminating distractions and refocusing on fundamentals, work ethic, and commitment, DeBoer is making a statement:

Alabama football is about winning, not individual brand-building.

How This Mentality Will Impact Alabama in 2024

Montgomery’s comments are more than just words—they signal a real change in how Alabama approaches preparation for the 2024 season.

Here’s how this renewed focus on discipline could help Alabama:

1. A Stronger Locker Room Culture

By holding every player accountable, the team can build a tighter, more focused locker room.

Removing distractions means that players will be more focused on their individual development and team chemistry.

2. More Competitive Practices

Alabama has always been known for intense, high-level practices, but an added layer of discipline and urgency could push players even harder.

With no late arrivals, no nonsense, and no distractions, practices could become even more efficient and productive.

3. A Return to ‘The Alabama Standard’

Nick Saban often spoke about “The Alabama Standard,” a phrase that represented the program’s commitment to excellence, hard work, and discipline.

Over time, outside distractions and complacency may have led to small deviations from that standard.

With players like Roq Montgomery setting the tone, Alabama could be reestablishing its identity as the hardest-working and most disciplined program in the country.

Final Thoughts: Alabama’s Renewed Mentality Could Lead to a Dominant Season

Roq Montgomery’s comments about being “more dialed in” are more than just a reflection of offseason changes—they represent a cultural reset at Alabama.

With no more excuses, no more distractions, and a focus on pure football, Alabama is laying the foundation for another championship run.

If this new mentality carries over into the season, expect the Crimson Tide to be even more dangerous in 2024—and for Alabama football to remind everyone that winning is the only thing that matters in Tuscaloosa.