Alabama football’s most underrated players of 2021
By Dakota Cox
These Alabama football players deserve recognition
Alabama football always has some of the best players in college football. With every game being nationally televised, it’s hard to be underrated in Tuscaloosa. Still, it happens every year. While there are plenty of fan favorites, key contributors still find a way to fly under the radar.
In 2020, the attention went to the upperclassmen on offense. With Mac Jones, Najee Harris and DeVonta Smith gone, there will be a new regime. It will mostly be led by players who deserved more credit for their contributions last season. With that in mind, these three players come into 2021 as the most underrated players on Alabama football’s roster.
Chris Allen, EDGE
When you think of the outside linebackers, your mind immediately goes to Will Anderson. That’s fair considering he had one of the best freshman seasons in Alabama football history. Still, the linebacker opposite him deserves more credit.
Allen led all Tide players in tackles for loss last year. He had six sacks and forced two fumbles for Alabama as well. He may not have as many sacks as Will Anderson, but he provides an elite presence on the edge in his own right.
DeMarcco Hellams, S
Alabama had a young secondary last year, but plenty of players stepped up. Jordan Battle was great at safety, but Hellams played well alongside him. He brings a strong presence, and he can knock a receiver on their back with his strength.
Without Surtain, there will be more pressure on the safeties in coverage. Hellams could surge up draft boards if he plays well in 2021.
Evan Neal, LT
This one may be argued, but Neal was overlooked on last year’s offensive line. He was one of the best right tackles in college football. Now that he is moving to left tackle, he can play his natural position once again.
Neal was too good to leave on the bench for two years. He started at guard before moving to tackle. Now that he’s back at LT, he can live up to the hype as he plays the most important position on the offensive line.
Neal could be the best left tackle of the Saban era, which makes him underrated now. Viewing him as really good is an understatement.