Phidarian Mathis impressed pro teams at the NFL Scouting Combine and Alabama’s Pro Day, but not winning the College Football Playoff National Championship still hurts him.
Mathis expects to hear his name called between the second and third round, but he fell short of capturing his third national championship ring in five years with the Crimson Tide.
RELATED: Nick Saban says Alabama hasn’t missed a beat since losing Dr. Matt Rhea
He exits after a season where he became a permanent team captain, and his positive energy propelled Alabama’s defense to a Southeastern Conference title. Mathis totaled 53 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, nine sacks, six quarterback hurries, two pass breakups, a forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries in 2021. Will Anderson garnered more conversations, but Mathis is highly productive as a fifth-year senior. The Louisiana native had one message for his returning linemen for this upcoming season.
He wants to see the guys up front be the force behind a championship.
Phil Mathis has one message for the DL that returned to Alabama for this season.
“I want all those guys to step. It’s their time to shine. We got to get that championship this season.”- Phil Mathis
He wants DJ Dale, Byron Young, Justin Eboigbe, and Tim Smith to eat. pic.twitter.com/EyMdwd4NFI
— Stephen M. Smith (@CoachingMSmith) March 30, 2022
“I am hopeful that the guys will step up,” Mathis said to reporters on Wednesday about his expectations for Alabama’s defensive line in the fall. “They deserve it. I want to see all those guys step up. If you all hear me, it is time for you to step up. We got to get that chip for sure.”
Mathis highlighted DJ Dale, Byron Young, Justin Eboigbe, Tim Smith, and Stephon Wynn.
Alabama has depth on its defensive front, and it wins championships when the men in the trenches play to an exceptional standard. The big brother has issued the challenges, and as Mathis leaves, he expects the mission to get carried out.
*Get the BEST Alabama football insider information, message board access, and recruiting coverage today! SIGN UP HERE to unlock our subscriber-only content!*
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.
