After starting all 14 games last season for Alabama, cornerback Cyrus Jones has spent this spring on the sideline.
Jones played through the Crimson Tide's Southeastern Conference championship season with a torn labrum in his hip. He was limited in practices during the week but was Alabama's most consistent corner every Saturday.
The 5-foot-10, 194-pound senior from Baltimore underwent surgery in January.
"It's going well, but it's been bittersweet seeing all the guys go out there and compete, knowing that I can't be out there with them," Jones said Tuesday in an interview on Alabama's official website. "I'm just trying to be patient and do everything the trainers tell me. When I get back, I want it to be for good. I don't want any setbacks."
Alabama practiced for two hours in full pads Tuesday, its 13th workout of the spring. The Crimson Tide spent the practice correcting mistakes from last Saturday's second scrimmage and beginning preparations for this Saturday's A-Day game at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
Jones, who compiled 46 tackles, three interceptions, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery last year, has spent this spring trying to enhance his mental understanding of the game and has observed others. One of his fellow cornerbacks from last season, junior Eddie Jackson, has been practicing at safety.
"Eddie looks really good at safety," Jones said. "He's a natural athlete and a natural football player. Some guys can get put in the box and play only one position, but you can put him anywhere on the field and it looks like he's always been at that position."
Jones also has been impressed with freshman safety Ronnie Harrison, who was working with the first team Tuesday.
"He's instinctive, and he's always making plays," Jones said.
Tide tidbits
Junior defensive tackle A'Shawn Robinson, who sprained his knee and ankle last Monday, returned to practice on a limited basis. ... Freshman Deionte Thompson, who signed two months ago as a defensive back, continued to work at receiver. ... Former safety Landon Collins is among the 26 players who will be attending the NFL draft later this month.
Contact David Paschall at dpaschall@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6524.