Alabama football injury update: The latest on Kalen DeBoer ahead of Western Kentucky

Kalen DeBoer started the first week of play with good injury news.

DeBoer was asked Monday to provide an update on the injuries to starters Jaeden Roberts and Jam Miller, and he seemed optimistic about both. DeBoer said Roberts and Miller are expected to practice and “be ready” to face Western Kentucky on Saturday.

Meanwhile, backup linebacker Jeremiah Alexander is also dealing with an injury, and DeBoer said he “probably wouldn't count on him” for Saturday.

Miller sustained injuries during some training sessions last preseason and Roberts sustained an injury in the second training game.

Miller is expected to start at running back this season and Roberts is expected to return to his starting spot at right guard this season.

Alabama faces Western Kentucky on Saturday (6 p.m., ESPN) at Bryant-Denny Stadium, ushering in a new era of football as Nick Saban is no longer the coach for the first time since 2006.