By the conclusion of the day on Saturday, four more former Alabama football players had been picked, bringing the Crimson Tide’s total for 2024 to ten.
Offensive tackle JC Latham, edge rusher Dallas Turner, and cornerback Terrion Arnold were all taken in the first round, followed by cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry, wide receiver Jermaine Burton, and edge rusher Chris Braswell on day two. Several Alabama players remained on the board as the draft neared its end.
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.
Following another lull, it appeared that no more Alabama players would be drafted. However, the New York Jets selected safety Jaylen Key as the 257th and last pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Key played one season in Tuscaloosa after transferring from UAB. In addition to being this year’s Mr. Irrelevant, the transfer safety was the last draft pick in Coach Nick Saban’s famous career.
These 2024 choices increased Saban’s Alabama total to 133 and will be regarded as his final crop of potential 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.
