TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 09: Running back Wayne Gallman #9 of the Clemson Tigers is tackled by linebacker Tim Williams #56 and defensive back Anthony Averett #28 of the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half of the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium on January 9, 2017 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)

Starter for title contender to miss most of summer after serious surgery

Thankfully it doesn't sound like he will be out too long.

Starting cornerback Anthony Averett of the Crimson Tide will likely miss a good portion of the summer after undergoing surgery for a sports hernia according to AL.com. The rising senior is playing at a position of need for Alabama and had a nice breakout season in 2016.

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He recorded 48 tackles and a team-high eight pass breakups during 2016's national championship run while playing through that sports hernia. He established himself as a top cornerback in the SEC and might be able to claim the title as the best one this season as he is expected to be back before the start of camp in August.

[h/t Saturday Down South]