NFL Mock Draft has 4 Crimson Tide Players Selected in Round 1
The NFL draft is still a few months away. The flow of projections from top analysts keeps coming as it draws closer.
Natalie Miller of Draft Wire recently released their first round mock draft. This iteration includes four Crimson Tide players being selected within the first 15 picks. Note that this mock draft does not include any trades.
No. 1: Will Anderson Jr.: Chicago Bears
Alabama defensive end Will Anderson Jr. gets the nod as the No. 1 overall pick by Draft Wire. Anderson was flying all over the field in 2022 for the Crimson Tide after having one of the strongest seasons in Alabama defensive history the year prior.
Anderson finishes his career at the Capstone in second place on Alabama's career sack (34.5) and tackles for loss (62) list trailing only Derrick Thomas. Anderson became only the second player in history to win the Nagurski Trophy two times.
Anderson also led the team with 12 quarterback hurries in 2022, blocked a field goal and returned an interception for a touchdown against Louisiana Monroe.
No. 2: Bryce Young: Houston Texans
Alabama quarterback Bryce Young is projected to be selected No. 2 overall. Young was the best quarterback in college football the last two seasons, so it is no surprise to see him projected so highly despite his size.
Young is the only quarterback in Crimson Tide history to have two 3,000-plus yard seasons. He also finishes his legacy at Alabama in second place in career passing yards (8,356) and touchdowns (80).
Young was also a mobile quarterback who escaped pressure on a number of occasions. He had seven career rushing touchdowns at Alabama.
No. 13: Tyler Steen: New York Jets
Alabama offensive lineman transfer Tyler Steen finds himself in the top 15 of the Draft Wire mock draft. Steen was an excellent pick up for Alabama after spending his first four seasons with the Vanderbilt Commodores.
Steen started all 13 games at left tackle for Alabama in 2022. Steen totaled 25 knockdown blocks while anchoring the left side of the offensive line. He only allowed 4.5 sacks and 12 pressures all season.
No. 15: Brian Branch: Green Bay Packers
Brian Branch started every game for Alabama at the STAR position. This position refers to a player who serves in a hybrid role as a linebacker and defensive back. Branch recorded 90 total tackles in 2022 and 14 tackles for loss.
Branch also wreaked havoc in the secondary where he recorded seven pass breakups and two interceptions. He also recorded a punt return for a touchdown.
The Crimson Tide clearly has the potential to see a number of players drafted on night one of the NFL draft. The only team that has more players in the first round of this mock draft is the reigning national champions, the Georgia Bulldogs, which has five players projected to be selected in the first round.