Alabama Football: Players to watch NFL Preseason Week 1

Alabama football players are back on display this week

There is at least one Alabama football player on 31 of the 32 NFL teams. When that happens, it’s impossible to turn on a game and not see a former member of the Crimson Tide. While that’s the case for the regular season, other players are on display in the preseason.

The preseason is mostly for young players and depth pieces to get practice before the regular season. Whether they’re trying to make the roster or are simply wanting to get better, it is common for new faces to emerge in the preseason. Veterans are usually saved for the regular season where games count.

Because of this, don’t expect to see Derrick Henry rush for 200 yards or Julio Jones to shock everyone with the Titans. They may get a series or two, but they’ll mostly be on the sidelines.

So, which former Alabama football players should we expect to see in the first week of preseason? These are some names to keep an eye on.

Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins are fully invested in Tua as their franchise quarterback, and he has looked great at training camp. This will be his first test against a new opponent, and it will be a good test to see how much he has improved.

Tua will be throwing to his Alabama football teammate Jaylen Waddle. Both rookies should get significant reps this preseason.

Xavier McKinney, S, New York Giants

Xavier McKinney was out for most of his rookie season because of an injury. However, he shined for the few games he played. In 2021-22, he will be a key piece for New York’s defense. This will be a chance to show fans what he is capable of.

Mac Jones, QB, New England Patriots

Mac Jones is in a quarterback battle, and many wonder when he will take over the starting job for the Patriots. He’ll likely start on the bench, but he has a chance to take over the starting job.

This will be his first chance to take NFL reps in a live environment. If he shines, it will become a talking point as the season progresses.

Alabama football players are always ready to shine, and we’ll see who steps up this weekend.