Alabama Football: Underrated players in the 2022 NFL Draft

These Alabama football players deserve more respect

When you think of Alabama football players in the NFL, most of the first names you think of were drafted in the first round. The Falcons traded up for Julio Jones, and four other receivers were taken in the last two first rounds. However, some Tide stars were still underrated.

Derrick Henry went in the second round. Eddie Jackson slipped due to an injury. Levi Wallace went from an undrafted free agent to a multi-millionaire. 

There are some underrated Alabama football players in this year’s class as well. Evan Neal and Jameson Williams are getting plenty of hype. John Metchie is flying under the radar, but fans will know his name.

With that in mind, these players are being undervalued as NFL Draft prospects. They have what it takes to contribute above where they will be drafted.

Phil Mathis, IDL

Mathis does enough for NFL teams to trust him as he continues to develop. He might not have elite skills as a pass-rusher, but the production from his senior season is a sign of what he can do. He also muddies the trenches with his size, so he should be able to play all downs in the NFL once he gets comfortable with the pro game.

Mathis is also an elite leader. He will make a difference in any locker room. While he will likely go in the second or third round, he has value beyond that.

Chris Allen, EDGE

Allen’s injury history limited his production with Alabama football. It will hurt his draft stock as well. However, the fact remains that he is an elite pass rusher when he sees the field. You can’t take him early because of his medical history, but he can contribute if he gets healthy and stays there.

Other Tide players dropped due to injuries, and there is a risk there. Still, a healthy Chris Allen is a starter in the NFL.

Christian Harris, LB

Harris is an elite athlete with coverage skills. He needs to bulk up for the NFL, but his athleticism is being underrated. This draft has a few linebackers who should go in the first round, but Harris will be a value pick on Day 2 of the draft. For teams who need a starter but can’t take a player in the first round, Harris makes sense.

None of these players will be discussed on the first night of the NFL Draft, but they could be key contributors in a few short seasons.