Though the NFL Draft is still three months away, there is much jockeying for position among college players to get in the best draft spot. For Crimson Tide players, predictions are all over the place. Alabama could see three players picked in the first round or they could see none. The final draft order is yet to be locked in due to the on-going playoff.
DRAFT ELIGIBLE ALABAMA PLAYERS
LB Jihaad Campbell
The draft stock has soared for the Tide’s defensive MVP. He should be a Day 1 starter for whatever lucky NFL team picks him. The mocks are varied on his landing spot, but nobody is dumb enough to slot him on Day 2 of the Draft (rounds 2-3). Tampa Bay at around #20 seems to be a popular pick.
OL Tyler Booker
For most of the fall and into winter, the Alabama team captain was trending in the mid to upper 20s of the first round. However as of late, Seattle at #18 has been emerging in many of the mock drafts. The Seahawks’ offensive line is atrocious and needs to be addressed.
QB Jalen Milroe
One of the more controversial picks will be the Crimson Tide’s signal caller. Many people compare him to the 2024 fourth overall pick Anthony Richardson who went to the Colts as a guy with immense talent who needs some fine-tuning. The only difference is Milroe isn’t going to quit in the middle of a game. Scouts love his heart. And who knows? With the right QB coach, he could turn into Lamar Jackson. Milroe’s mocked destination is no consensus, but two teams keep popping up: the Raiders at 4, 5, or 6 and the Steelers in the early 20s. (Senior Bowl participant)
DB Malachi Moore
The best thing about Moore is his versatility. He can play either safety position, corner or nickle. Alabama lists him at 6-0 and 201 lbs, but color me skeptical. The Combine will produce more accurate measurements and if he is under 5-11 it will likely hurt his value. He is likely a round 4 or 5 pick. (Senior Bowl participant)
DL Tim Smith
Smith was a bit inconsistent in his playing days in Tuscaloosa. He doesn’t appear to be an every down linemen but could find a niche as a specialist. 7th round or free agent.
TE CJ Dippre
It feels like CJ was never truly exploited as an offensive weapon in his two years at the Capstone. By all accounts, he is an decent blocker and plays with fire. He could make a nice second or third tight end for someone. Unfortunately, this is a deep class for the position and nobody will use a pick on a piece like that. Free agent most likely. (Senior Bowl participant)
LB Que Robinson
Que was having a pretty nice season until he suffered a season-ending injury during the team’s game against LSU in November. The silver lining is that the injury was to his left forearm and not of the lower body. It has been almost ten weeks since the incident. He should be on the road to recovery and ready to go by the time NFL training camps begin in July. He is slated to participate in the East-West Shrine Game at the end of this month. It is doubtful he plays, but it’s a great opportunity for him to meet coaches and do some drills. Depending on how he develops and heals, he could hear his name called on Day 3. However, it is a gamble until he is seen in live action. Tough luck, but likely a free agent pick up.
P James Burnip
Burnip is one of the most underappreciated members of the Crimson Tide. He has been rock solid and also has kick holding skills. Punters usually are not drafted but it is not out of the ordinary. Late on Day 3 or free agent. (Senior Bowl participant)
SN Kneeland Hibbett
What can you say about a long snapper? He was basically flawless over four seasons. If there is a stacked team out there that needs that piece, he could get selected. More likely, he won’t but he should make an NFL team next fall, even if it’s a practice squad.
PK Graham Nicholson
What a long strange trip it’s been for the 2024 Lou Groza Award winner. From number 1 kicker* a year ago to an almost forgotten man this past season. TBH, I can’t even recall is jersey number this season. Nicholson attempted only 10 field goals and connected on 8 this season. He had 28 tries the year before at Miami-Ohio. In his career, he is only 2 of 5 from 50 yards or more. He won’t get drafted but he’ll get a tryout somewhere. Hopefully, he got a good degree.
IMPORTANT DATES
- Jan 30: East-West Shrine Bowl (Arlington, TX)
- Feb 1: Senior Bowl (Mobile, AL)
- Feb 9: Super Bowl LIX (New Orleans, LA)
- February 24 – March 3: NFL Scouting Combine (Indianapolis, IN)
- Apr 16: Deadline for clubs to time, test, visit, interview, or conduct a physical examination with a draft-eligible player at its club facility.
- Apr 24 – 27 NFL Draft (Green Bay, WI).
