He was not a prominent name, yet Ty Flournoy-Smith knew his role at Alabama.
The former Georgia Military tight end (JUCO) transferred to Tuscaloosa in 2014. He blocked for 206.6 rushing yards a game, while catching two passes for 18 yards and a score.
Flournoy-Smith’s touchdown reception came against Texas A&M on a 14-yard strike from quarterback Jacob Coker.
Alabama went on to win the contest 59-0 at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
He saw action in nine games last season, after playing in just four games during the 2014 season. The 6-foot-3, 247-pounder blocked for 199.9 rushing yards and helped running back Derrick Henry secure a Heisman Trophy. Flournoy-Smith set the edge for Henry’s 2,219 yards and 28 touchdowns.
He improved a little on the receiving end, collecting three passes for 48 yards.
#Bama TE prospect Ty Flournoy-Smith in the 3-cone drill at pro day. pic.twitter.com/udW2iZ2I2h
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) March 13, 2016
He participated in the broad jump, 40-yard dash and 3-cone drill, but his hands during pass-catching sessions were good. Whether Coker threw on the run or in the pocket, Flournoy-Smith had no problems snatching passes with his hands.
Alabama TE prospect Ty Flournoy-Smith catching a pass from QB Jacob Coker at pro day. pic.twitter.com/bhFEkIVGBF
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) March 13, 2016
More of Alabama TE Ty Flournoy-Smith at pro day. pic.twitter.com/lc9EkDy8ib
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) March 13, 2016
No NFL team has a dire need for a tight end in this year’s draft class, but Flournoy-Smith’s size, playmaking abilities and success under head coach Nick Saban could land him a free agent contract and a practice squad role.
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.
