Only a few know how good linebacker Denzel Devall could have been, if not for an ankle injury against Ole Miss in 2014.
Regardless of the mishap, he grew into a seasoned veteran at jack linebacker after earning the starting job in 2013.
He received Freshman All-American honors via Sporting News in 2012, a season in which he totaled 18 tackles, three tackles for loss, two sacks and three quarterback hurries.
Alabama OLB prospect Denzel Devall running the 40 at Wednesday's pro day. pic.twitter.com/skgJSYKOcw
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) March 11, 2016
Devall, a native of Bistrop, La., ends his career with 83 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, six sacks, 13 quarterback hurries, three pass breakups and two forced fumbles. The 6-foot-2, 252-pounder had a strong outing during Wednesday’s pro day.
His footwork and hip movements were sound in agility drills. Devall showed the ability to backpedal and track the football, along with possessing a firm hand strike in pass rush drills.
He was clocked at 5.14 seconds in the 40-yard dash, according to Roster Watch.
Devall – 5.14
— RosterWatch (@RosterWatch) March 9, 2016
Devall has the frame to be a good edge rusher, yet he has to stay low in coming off the ball. Multiple NFL scouts saw him being a little too upright in his approach to rush the passer.
Alabama OLB Denzel Devall working through bags at pro day. pic.twitter.com/tLstPr4gPU
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) March 11, 2016
OLB Denzel Devall showing good footwork maneuvering through tackle dummies. pic.twitter.com/km5oxvusku
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) March 11, 2016
Devall played both at rush linebacker and defensive end at Alabama. Eight NFL teams are in need of defensive linemen, while six franchises could use a reliable outside linebacker.
He was a member of three Southeastern Conference championships (2012, 2014-15) and two national championships (2014-15) with the Crimson Tide.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.
