The Alabama Crimson Tide football team is nearing the end of its 2024 season, with one game left to play. However, the ongoing changes driven by the NCAA’s transfer portal rules are forcing teams like Alabama to start planning for the future well before the season officially concludes. This makes roster management particularly challenging, especially when it comes to addressing gaps and potential departures, all while finishing up the current campaign.
Alabama’s offensive line has seen some consistency this season, with the following regular starting lineup:
- Left Tackle (LT): Kadyn Proctor, SO
- Left Guard (LG): Tyler Booker, JR
- Center (C): Parker Brailsford, RS SO
- Right Guard (RG): Jaeden Roberts, RS JR
- Right Tackle (RT): Elijah Pritchett, RS SO
Key Players and Their Prospects
- Kadyn Proctor
Proctor, a former highly ranked recruit, has been one of the most stable pieces on the offensive line this season. Despite some rumors linking him to a possible transfer to Iowa last year, Proctor seems set to remain at Alabama for his junior year, barring any unforeseen changes. - Tyler Booker
Booker has been a standout this season and a team leader. He has yet to announce his intentions regarding the NFL draft, but it’s widely anticipated that he will declare for the 2025 NFL Draft. Given his exceptional play and leadership, it’s unlikely that he will return for another season. - Parker Brailsford
Brailsford has been a steady force at center. Although he is draft-eligible, he has made it clear that he plans to return to Alabama for his redshirt junior season. His consistency and leadership make him a key figure on the offensive line for the upcoming year. - Jaeden Roberts
Roberts has had an up-and-down season, showing flashes of potential but also some signs of regression. There have been instances where he was substituted out in favor of utility offensive lineman Geno VanDeMark. His status for next season remains uncertain, but his position may be in jeopardy if he doesn’t show more improvement. - Elijah Pritchett
Pritchett’s career has been marked by inconsistency, both on and off the field. The former 5-star recruit had a rough start and even considered entering the transfer portal last year before ultimately deciding to stay. This season, he faced a challenge at right tackle from redshirt freshman Wilkin Formby. Pritchett’s future remains unclear, with questions about his ability to secure a starting spot going forward.
If no further departures occur and assuming Booker moves on to the NFL, the offensive line will lose just one starter. However, it’s important to note that some of the other starting spots are still up for competition. Brailsford seems locked in at center, and Proctor at left tackle appears to be a safe bet for next season, but the other positions could see significant changes.
Top Contenders for Offensive Line Positions
- Geno VanDeMark
VanDeMark, a redshirt senior who transferred from Michigan State, has proven to be a versatile and reliable backup. He has seen significant playing time, especially as a backup at center and guard. VanDeMark started games at both left and right guard and also filled in when Brailsford lost his helmet. His versatility and experience make him a strong candidate to secure a starting position at one of the guard spots. - Wilkin Formby
Formby, a local talent from Tuscaloosa, has had his share of challenges but showed promise, particularly as a run blocker. His pass protection needs work, but given that he is still a relatively young redshirt sophomore, he has time to refine his game. He’ll likely continue to compete for the starting role at right tackle. - Rising Redshirt Sophomores
Olaus Alinen, a Finland native, played in all 12 games this season, primarily on special teams. He is still learning but could factor into the offensive line rotation moving forward. Roq Montgomery, another rising redshirt sophomore, also saw limited action this season, primarily on special teams, but has potential to grow into a more prominent role. - Rising Redshirt Freshmen
Alabama’s incoming redshirt freshmen include interior offensive linemen like Casey Poe, who arrived with high expectations and could challenge for a starting spot. William Sanders and Joseph Ionata, also part of the 2023 class, may need more development before they are ready to compete for starting roles. - Newcomers
While it’s rare for true freshmen to start immediately, Alabama has some highly rated recruits that could change that narrative. Michael Carroll, a 5-star offensive lineman, is an imposing physical presence at 6-6, 315 pounds. His aggressive playing style and potential could see him compete for playing time early on. Other top recruits include Jackson Lloyd, a top-50 recruit at tackle, who could make an impact. Meanwhile, Micah DeBose and Mal Waldrep are expected to redshirt and develop further.
Transfer Portal Visitors
The transfer portal is another avenue through which Alabama is looking to bolster its offensive line for the future. Recent visits have brought in some experienced players who could provide immediate help.
- Kam Dewberry, a former Texas A&M lineman, visited Alabama recently. Dewberry has started 32 games in his career and has experience at both guard positions. With one season of eligibility remaining, Dewberry would bring veteran experience to the Tide’s offensive line.
- Kahlee Tafai, a former Washington lineman, is another transfer target. Tafai, who played left tackle for the Huskies this season, is viewed as more of an interior prospect for Alabama. His versatility and experience, particularly in starting high-profile games, could make him a valuable addition. Tafai has already visited UCLA and is scheduled to visit Michigan State next.
- Patrick Kutas, an offensive lineman from Arkansas, visited Tuscaloosa but left without an offer. Despite the lack of an offer, Kutas could still be an option if Alabama looks to add depth at the position.
Players Transferring Out
- Miles McVay, a reserve offensive lineman, transferred to North Carolina.
- Naquil Betrand, another offensive lineman, was removed from the roster in October and has since committed to Syracuse.
Other Recruiting Notes
While the Crimson Tide has focused much of its attention on adding experienced offensive linemen through the transfer portal, they’ve also been making moves on the receiver front. Despite the buzz surrounding receiver KC Concepcion, he did not receive an offer after his visit to Alabama. Meanwhile, Miami’s Isaiah Horton, a rising redshirt junior, has emerged as a key target. Horton had a strong 2024 season with 56 receptions for 616 yards and five touchdowns, and he is favored to transfer to Alabama.
In conclusion, Alabama’s offensive line situation is in flux, with several positions up for grabs and key players potentially moving on. The Tide will likely look to bolster their line through the transfer portal while continuing to develop their younger players for the future. The coming months will be crucial for determining how the offensive line will look in 2025 and beyond.
