Alabama Crimson Tide: Pro thoughts on Tua, Kira Lewis Jr. and more

For all the success Alabama Crimson Tide players have had professionally, there are exceptions. Consider the latest buzz on Tua and Kira Lewis Jr.

The Alabama Crimson Tide was fortunate to have a generational talent in Tua Tagovailoa. When healthy, Tua was nothing short of sensational. He was the epitome of a winner and a leader.

Last season, the youngest player in Division One basketball, Kira Lewis Jr. was often referred to as a ‘can’t miss’ future NBA star. Taking nothing away from Kira, but ‘can’t miss’ should never be applied to anyone.

Whether it is a 5-Star recruit or a college star, turning professional, there are misses. It happens with fewer, former Alabama Crimson Tide football players than players from other schools. But it happens, even with Tide football and it happens throughout the worlds of college and NBA basketball.

Sometimes it is players leaving college too soon before their skills have sufficiently developed. Other times, it is the result of injuries. Bad luck too often plays a part.

Speaking of bad luck, former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa has had plenty of it. Nick Saban believes in talent rather than luck. The Tide coach knows how much talent Tua has,

"I think he’s a lot like Drew Brees. I always thought Aaron Rodgers was a lot like that as a player too. Not overly big, accurate with the ball, really good judgment, decision-making."

As Saban’s comments circulated, other Tua news came out. The Miami Herald reported the Dolphins are not yet sold on Tua.

"One source said the Dolphins are not just concerned about Tagovailoa’s return to full health from the fractured and dislocated hip he suffered last November, but also about his durability in the long-term beyond the current injury."

According to the Herald story, the Dolphins are considering taking Justin Herbert instead of Tua. The Draft is a long way off. Rumors will circulate right up to when names are called. It is hard to imagine Tua being drafted outside the Top 10.

Kira Lewis Jr. will have to make an NBA Draft decision with more unknowns. Some experts are suggesting he might be a first-round pick. His stock is rising. On Monday he was named SEC Player of the Week. Teammate, Jaden Shackelford was named the SEC Freshman of the Week. Both young men have bright, basketball futures. Shackelford could become an SEC superstar as a sophomore. Lewis might become an NBA lottery pick if he waits another year to turn pro.

Right now, all three young men are on paths to professional success. Based on what was said up top, they can’t be called ‘can’t miss’ future pros. But we sure like their chances.