Defensive back is one of four positions that Nick Saban recruits well at Alabama.
He is starting to be more successful in getting quarterbacks, but Saban typically brings in studs for the Crimson Tide’s defensive secondary.
Since 2009, he has put 21 defensive backs into the NFL Draft — including seven first-rounders.
Patrick Surtain II was the latest first-round selection as the Denver Broncos picked him at No. 9 overall in April. Josh Jobe is next in line to be a first-round pick, and Saban said he has ‘good knowledge and experience’ as a cornerback.
Jalyn Armour-Davis has performed well in preseason camp, and Marcus Banks has been solid. Malachi Moore and Brian Branch are doing well, but Saban has been pleased with the young players at cornerback. Alabama signed Kool-Aid McKinstry, Terrion Arnold, and Khyree Jackson in the 2021 class.
“Some of the young guys have shown promise,” Saban said Wednesday.
“I think they are still feeling their way, but have shown some promise. We need to get everybody on the field so we can work together as a unit, which is something we have not been able to do for the last three to four practices.”
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Saban mentioned McKinstry and Jackson as players that have shown promise. He has been complimentary of Arnold too, especially with him going from safety to corner. Alabama wants to have its best athletes playing in the secondary.
The Tide has depth in its defensive backfield, and we will see how much of it plays versus Miami.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “watch” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
