Nick Saban put several defensive linemen in the National Football League — including numerous defensive tackles — during his 17 seasons as the head football coach of the University of Alabama.
Marcell Dareus, Da’Ron Payne, Quinnen Williams, and Jonathan Allen all were first-round picks.
Crimson Tide fans are looking for dominant performances from defensive lineman to return.
Alabama has potential in this group, but who emerges as the star that can be counted on to consistently make plays? Tim Kennan III, James Smith, and Keon Keeley want to take on the mantle.
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The Tide also has Jeheim Oatis, Tim Smith, Jah-Marien Latham, Damon Payne Jr., and others.
According to a stat from Pro Football Focus, Alabama remains as the marquee program in college football for defensive tackles in the NFL.
The Tide has 14 players at the position in the league, which seven more than Auburn (seven), Clemson (seven), Iowa (seven), LSU (seven), North Carolina State (seven), and Texas (seven).
Tide nation wants to see this number grow in next year’s NFL Draft.
Schools with Most DTs Currently on NFL Rosters🔥 pic.twitter.com/fpZiGmEkoM
— PFF College (@PFF_College) May 8, 2024
It starts with elite play up front, making things easier for linebackers and defensive backs.
Alabama has not had a defensive lineman go in the first round since Quinnen Williams in 2019.
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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
