Dallas Turner drew a lot of attention Thursday at the NFL Scouting Combine, but his former University of Alabama teammate did more than hold his own in front of teams at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Chris Braswell, a Maryland native, came to the Crimson Tide as a five-star edge rusher in the 2020 signing class.
RELATED: Former Alabama LB Dallas Turner secures first-round money in his bag at NFL Combine
He was regarded as a higher prospect than Will Anderson and Drew Sanders, but he waited his time and earned his marquee moment last season as a starter. Braswell performed well at the Reese’s Senior Bowl (Mobile, Ala.), but he displayed his speed, explosiveness, agility, athleticism, and pass-rush moves at the Combine. The 6-foot-3, 251-pounder recorded the same 40-time Anderson had in the 2023 event, which is a 4.6. Braswell posted a 33.5″ vertical and a 9’7″ broad jump, showing his explosiveness and lower body drive. He excelled in the on-field workout station — showcasing a variety power, speed, and edge-bending moves.
We 👀 you @Chrisbras410#NFLCombine on @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/XCDTeR0Uy7
— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) March 1, 2024
Braswell turned in a monster season for the Tide in 2023, helping its defense capture a Southeastern Conference Championship and a berth in the College Football Playoff. He collected 42 total tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, eight sacks, five quarterback hurries, three forced fumbles, a pass breakup, a blocked field goal, and an interception returned for a touchdown.
Braswell projects as a day two selection. Most draft pundits have him between the second and third round.
*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.
