TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) - Nick Saban says this Alabama team had probably the best results from the summer physical test of any group he's coached.

The defending national champion Crimson Tide returned to the practice field Friday to start fall camp trying to replace four NFL first-round draft picks and seven starters on defense.

The veterans practiced in the morning and the newcomers work in the evening.

Saban says the results from the annual test of sprints and bench press shows that Tide players have invested themselves in summer workouts.

He says running back Eddie Lacy isn't limited in workouts after toe surgery that kept him out of spring practices. Lacy is expected to replace Heisman Trophy finalist Trent Richardson.

Saban says the camp's biggest goal is to see how well newcomers develop roles.