Alabama finishes strong in 2024 NFL Draft

By the end of the day on Saturday, four more former Alabama Football players had been drafted, bringing the Crimson Tide’s 2024 total to 10. 

Offensive tackle JC Latham, edge rusher Dallas Turner, and cornerback Terrion Arnold all heard their names called in the first round, while cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry, wide receiver Jermaine Burton, and edge rusher Chris Braswell were all selected on day two. Heading into the final day of the draft, there were several Bama players still on the board. 

Defensive lineman Justin Eboigbe didn’t have to wait long, as he was taken with the fifth pick in the fourth round (105th overall). Eboigbe will be heading out west to play for the Los Angeles Chargers. 

No more Alabama players were taken until the sixth round. After a bit of a Bama drought, running back Jase McClellan was selected 186th overall by the Atlanta Falcons. McClellan is a well-rounded back who won't have to travel far to begin his pro career and should be a productive piece for the Falcons.

Not long after, kicker Will Reichard went to the Minnesota Vikings with the 203rd overall pick. One of the best kickers in college football history, Reichard will take his strong leg and winning ways to the NFC North.

After another lull, it looked like no more Bama players would be drafted. However, safety Jaylen Key was chosen by the New York Jets with the 257th and final pick of the 2024 NFL Draft. Key spent one season in Tuscaloosa after transferring in from UAB. In addition to being this year’s Mr. Irrelevant, the transfer safety also became the final draft pick of Coach Nick Saban’s legendary career.

These 2024 selections brought Saban’s Alabama total to 133, and will forever be remembered as his final crop of future pros. 

If the past is any indication, several members of this class will continue to carry on Coach Saban’s legacy with long and impactful NFL careers.