Tony Brown being injured led to an opportunity for one of Alabama's young defensive backs.

Brown missed some practice last week due to a pulled muscle, so freshman Shyheim Carter stepped in for Brown at nickel back.

He did well, according to Tide star defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick.

Fitzpatrick was asked this Wednesday: Which young defensive player has been impressing behind the scenes? His answer: Carter, a four-star recruit who is Brown's backup at nickel back.

"He was supposed to have a bigger role this season, and then it didn't kind of work out for him, but he didn't let it get to him," Fitzpatrick said. "He's been working real hard this season and learning the playbook."

The 6-foot, 190-pound Carter was one of the four cornerbacks in Alabama's past recruiting class.

The Louisiana native was the No. 9 cornerback and No. 71 overall prospect in this year's class, according to the 247Sports Composite Rankings.

He has made seven tackles while appearing in seven games.

"He's getting better out there," Fitzpatrick said, "and he's been out there competing every day."