Alabama Football: Interesting fan debate over OT transfer Tyler Steen

Alabama football fans keep asking what is happening and what will happen with Transfer Portal target Tyler Steen. Steen was a two-plus, season starter at tackle for the Vanderbilt Commodores. Last season he was the starting left tackle for the Dores.

After a shaky start on the left side, Steen improved over Vandy’s last nine games allowing “two sacks and 11 pressures.” That is not exactly a stellar performance. To some degree, the numbers may define a ceiling for Steen if he joins the Crimson Tide. Steen could have more upside under the Crimson Tide’s new offensive line coach, Eric Wolford. But can that upside be enough to be a solid improvement over the Tide’s right tackle’s performance last season? With no answer to that question, we can safely predict, Steen cannot provide what Evan Neal did at left tackle.

Several teams want Tyler Steen enough, they will purportedly offer him a guaranteed starting position. Indications are that is the case with Kentucky, LSU and multiple ACC schools. Nick Saban is actively pursuing Steen, but will not make the same pitch as the other schools. Steen and his family are expected in Tuscaloosa this weekend. His father has said Tyler wants to make a decision in March.

Alabama Football is Steen’s best path to the NFL

The big ‘if’ for Steen is whether to take advantage of a guaranteed starting role elsewhere or come to Tuscaloosa to compete. The Alabama Crimson Tide has a track record of putting offensive linemen in the NFL. It also has an offensive line roster loaded with talent. As many as six current Crimson Tide players will compete for the two open tackle slots.

If Steen is willing to compete, and by next fall, he beats out five of those guys, Alabama’s offensive line will be in great shape. It also can be in great shape without him or any other o-line transfer. The prospect of adding a 6’5″, 315 lb. tackle with extensive SEC starting experience excites many Tide fans. Nick Saban does not have a tough decision to make. If Steen is willing to compete, bring him onboard. If Steen or his family wants a guarantee, move on. It is that simple.

Steen has three seasons of SEC experience at tackle. Due to the COVID ‘super senior’ exception, Steen can play two more seasons of college ball.