Story byJake Boico, Roll Tide WireFri, January 16, 2026 at 8:50 PM UTC·1 min readAlabama running back AK Dear has officially announced his return for the 2026 season, per Yea Alabama. Dear showcased his potential on numerous occasions in the Alabama backfield throughout 2025, as the rising star will almost certainly have a much larger role on the Tide's offense moving forward. A Mississippi native, Dear recorded 140 yards and three touchdowns on 19 carries last season. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe 6'1", 212 pound back has elite speed and playmaking ability, as Dear's return to the Crimson Tide could prove to be a true difference maker throughout the 2026 campaign. A former four-star recruit, Dear was ranked as the No. 2 running back and the No.