He was one of five offensive linemen signed in Alabama’s 2015 recruiting class, and tonight’s meeting with Louisville could potentially kick off a monster senior year for him.
On just size alone, Lester Cotton is the most imposing player up front.
Hailing from Tuscaloosa, Ala., the 325-pounder was a unanimous four-star upon coming to Alabama from Central High School and has had moments of productivity as a run blocker and pass protector. His best performance by far came in the 2016 College Football Playoff semifinal matchup against Washington – Peach Bowl – where he sprung running back Bo Scarbrough for a Crimson Tide bowl record of 180 yards with two touchdowns on 19 carries in a 24-7 victory.
As great as he is physically, the lack of having a mental edge was the cause of inconsistency for Cotton throughout his tenure. While he took reps at left guard in fall camp, the 6-foot-4 road grader spoke with yours truly of Touchdown Alabama Magazine at Fan Day last month.
He said the main thing he’s improved at is processing information.
“For me, it’s about learning the game and understanding more details,” Cotton said.
“I know how to do the plays, but it was just learning what the receivers do, learning how the quarterback operates, I just felt like I needed to learn everything. I had to make myself mentally smarter every day, knowing that this is something I love.”
Before winning a Super Bowl with the Philadelphia Eagles, Chance Warmack was Alabama’s most recent All-American offensive guard. Cotton has the capabilities to reach that potential and seeing him express the dedication of getting better with processing information is a good sign.
Despite Ross Pierschbacher and Jonah Williams being the leaders, this group under Brent Key will go as far as Cotton goes. If he plays to his where his ceiling is, the Tide’s offensive line should win the Joe Moore Award.
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
