NFL Draft Prospects: Alabama
#88 TE OJ Howard (6’6 | 251 | 4.57) – Howard should be looking forward to playing Clemson as he had a breakout game against them in last year’s championship game (5-208-2). Throughout his career with the Tide, Howard hasn’t been utilized much as a receiver in their run-first offense but he flashes big play potential when given a chance.
Howard has the ideal size to be a match-up nightmare in the passing game, he runs like a big wide receiver, and has good enough hands to catch anything in his vicinity. He’s also a threat after the catch with good vision, acceleration, and agility in the open field. With Howard’s size, he is a problem for defensive backs to tackle once he gets moving.
His route running skills aren’t as polished as they should be as a four-year starter, but he’s shown the ability to get open consistently at the college level. Howard’s blocking can improve as well, though it’s better than most college tight ends with his receiving skills.
Despite a few traits that could use improvement, Howard is the most well-rounded tight end prospect in the draft and should be the first one off the board. I’d be surprised if Howard made it out of the first round.
Projection: First round pick
#22 OLB Ryan Anderson (6’2 | 253 | 4.77) – The less heralded and productive of Bama’s two edge rushers, but still a legitimate NFL prospect. Anderson isn’t as flashy or quick off the edge as Williams but he may be the better all-around player.
While Anderson lacks the explosion of Williams, he’s had plenty of success getting to the quarterback with 13.5 sacks over the last two seasons. He also plays more on running downs and has been effective with 28 tackles for loss and three forced fumbles since 2015.
Anderson has played well in coverage too with three pass defenses on the year and a pick-six against Washington in the first playoff game. He’s a solid all-around OLB prospect who gets overshadowed by the bigger names on his defense but is a legit first round prospect.
Projection: 1st-2nd Round