It’s no secret that Nick Saban has had unprecedented success at Alabama. He’s a great motivator and leader of men, knows how to assemble a staff of coaches who enhance his strengths, can adapt and adjust as well as anyone in football, and cares deeply about setting young men up for success in the future.
But, although we almost always immediately think about the titles when we talk about Saban, he has quietly put together quite the accomplishment. With the selection of Quinnen Williams to the New York Jets, Saban has now sent a player to the NFL in the first round for 11 consecutive years. Take a look at this list of picks:
2009: Andre Smith (9)
2010: Rolando McClain (10)
2011: Marcell Dareus (3)
2012: Trent Richardson (3)
2013: Dee Milliner (9)
2014: C.J. Mosley (17)
2015: Amari Cooper (4)
2016: Ryan Kelly (18)
2017: Marlon Humphrey (16)
2018: Minkah Fitzpatrick (11)
2019: Quinnen Williams (3)
Wow.
It’s a huge boost in recruiting when you can look a kid in the eyes, say “you have a hell of a shot at going in the first round,” absolutely mean it, and have the pedigree to back it up. Now, I’ll admit – not all of these guys pan out. But, there’s a hell of a lot of talent on that list.
Williams is instantly going to become an impact player for the Jets, presumably paired next to Leonard Williams, making for one of the best young defensive lines in the NFL.
But, Williams wasn’t the only Tide player to go in the first round. The Cincinnati Bengals drafted Jonah Williams to shore up their offensive line. He should be a factor right away given how badly his services are needed in Cincy.
And, the Oakland Raiders drafted a guy who I believe is the rightful best running back in this draft class, Josh Jacobs. Their offense is instantly improved with the Swiss Army Knife that Jacobs is.
Big night for the Tide…..yet again…
Stoney Keeley is the Editor in Chief of The SoBros Network. He is a strong supporter of Team GSD and #BeBetter. “Big Natural” covers the Tennessee Titans, Alabama Crimson Tide football, the WWE, and a whole wealth of nonsense. Follow on Twitter @StoneyKeeley
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