Alabama Football: Predicting A New Alabama NFL Draft Record

Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
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Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) in action against the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) in action against the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Tim Williams

Obtaining a clear view of first round draft selections is hard, even for expert draft prognosticators. The view dims when gazing into the second round. Beyond that, the picture is downright murky.

A few weeks ago, some experts believed Tim Williams had a chance to be a first-round pick. Almost no one thinks so now.

Williams is questioned by scouts as to his ability to stop the run. His multiple suspensions at Alabama is also not helping him, despite his candor with NFL teams.

His elite speed rushing skills will get him drafted, maybe early in the second round but he could drop as low as the third round.

His best opportunity looks like the Chargers with the 38th pick. Otherwise, he may not go until early in the third round.

Ryan Anderson

Ryan Anderson is viewed by some experts as the best potential value in the draft. Anderson will be a bargain as a second round pick. Alabama football fans certainly appreciate Anderson’s multiple skill sets. He can rush the passer, stuff the run and drop into coverage if needed.

The problem for Anderson is those damn spreadsheets again. His measurables are average, at best. Ryan’s response to that concern from his twitter account:

"“I was born to play the game of football.. not vertical or broad jump…”"

Some suggest Ryan is an angry young man, frustrated by being overshadowed by his more elite defensive teammates. We think that makes him a perfect choice for an NFL defense.

Our advice to NFL teams, “overlook Ryan Anderson at your own future peril.”

The projected range for Anderson is from 48th in the second round to 84th in the third round. Any team selecting Anderson after the 64th pick will be getting the biggest steal in the draft.