It seems that year in and year out, Nick Saban is tasked with replacing a wealth of talent on that Alabama Crimson Tide defense. In this year’s NFL Draft class, the Tide have 8979 defenders. Specifically, that secondary is undergoing a bit of an overhaul. Losing Trevon Diggs and Xavier McKinney hurt the most, as both guys figure to be first round selections this spring. But, beyond the star power of those two names, the Tide will also lose two quality producers in Shyheim Carter and Jared Mayden. That makes it all the more important for Patrick Surtain II to step up and lead the secondary in 2020.
Surtain is the most experienced starter among the returning Tide defensive backs. But, beyond him, there’s a whole lot of question marks. Josh Jobe figures to be one of the starters, as he was called upon in the Citrus Bowl to play in Diggs’ absence. Behind him, there’s a group of guys who have been spot players in Jalyn Armour-Davis and Marcus Banks, JUCO transfer Ronald Williams (who Saban is high on), and four-star freshman Jahquez Robinson, who by all means, looks like he could eventually be the heir to the Alabama DB throne. But, that does little to answer the questions surrounding the secondary in 2020.
All eyes are going to be on Surtain this year. Entering his third season in Tuscaloosa, Surtain has 79 total tackles, 2.5 for loss, three interceptions, four forced fumbles, and 15 passes deflected. He plays the ball well, but he’s going to have to improve his coverage skills. There have been times throughout his career that he’s been had. Now, he’ll likely be drawing better match-ups on a more consistent basis. So, that is the major concern about whether or not he can step up into the featured role. If he can, he could very well be the next first-round Tide cornerback we’re scouting for the NFL. He has the potential.
If the Tide is going to continue this lineage of fantastic defensive backs, Patrick Surtain II is the guy who has to step up and keep the legacy going in 2020.
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, Nashville, and a whole wealth of nonsense. Follow on Twitter @StoneyKeeley
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