Crimson Tide Players Land All-Pro Honors: Bama in the NFL, Wild-Card Playoff Tracker

The Alabama Crimson Tide has long been recognized as one of the most successful college football programs in history. Under head coach Nick Saban, Alabama has become a perennial powerhouse, producing an endless pipeline of elite talent that transitions seamlessly into the NFL. The dominance of former Crimson Tide players in the professional ranks has only intensified in recent years, and the 2024 NFL season has been no exception. Several players with Alabama roots have been named to the prestigious NFL All-Pro teams, while others continue to shine in the league as their teams make deep playoff pushes. With the NFL’s wild-card weekend upon us, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the impact of former Bama players and take a closer look at how they’re faring in the postseason.

All-Pro Honors for Former Crimson Tide Stars

Each year, the NFL announces its All-Pro teams, which consist of the league’s top performers at every position. This year, several Alabama players were honored for their outstanding performances during the 2024 season. The All-Pro teams are divided into two groups: the First Team and the Second Team. While making an All-Pro team is a monumental achievement for any player, securing a spot on the First Team represents the highest level of recognition, and several former Bama stars found themselves in this elite company.

1. Minkah Fitzpatrick (Safety – Pittsburgh Steelers)

Minkah Fitzpatrick, one of the most versatile and dynamic safeties in the NFL, was named to the First Team All-Pro for the second time in his career. Fitzpatrick’s ability to impact the game from both safety spots and his knack for creating turnovers have made him one of the most feared defensive backs in the league. This season, Fitzpatrick led the Steelers with multiple interceptions, showing off his ball-hawking skills while also being a strong presence in run support. His leadership in the Pittsburgh secondary helped the Steelers reach the postseason, and his selection to the First Team All-Pro roster was a testament to his consistency and excellence throughout the 2024 season.

2. Quinnen Williams (Defensive Tackle – New York Jets)

Quinnen Williams has been a dominant force on the defensive line for the New York Jets, and his performance this season earned him a well-deserved spot on the First Team All-Pro. Williams has been one of the best interior defensive linemen in the league, consistently disrupting the opposing offense with his combination of strength, quickness, and technique. His ability to pressure the quarterback, stuff the run, and occupy blockers allowed his teammates to thrive on defense. Williams’ incredible 2024 season, which included numerous sacks and tackles for loss, was a major reason the Jets’ defense was one of the most formidable in the NFL. The Jets’ playoff hopes were ultimately dashed, but Williams’ All-Pro selection will be a high point in an otherwise tumultuous season for New York.

3. DeVonta Smith (Wide Receiver – Philadelphia Eagles)

In just his third season in the NFL, DeVonta Smith has already established himself as one of the top wide receivers in the league. The 2024 season saw Smith put up impressive numbers with the Philadelphia Eagles, catching passes from superstar quarterback Jalen Hurts. Smith’s precise route running, ability to separate from defenders, and knack for making big plays in clutch moments were all on full display. He ended the regular season with over 1,200 receiving yards and double-digit touchdowns, earning him a spot on the Second Team All-Pro list. Smith’s performance in his third year proved that he is not just a product of Alabama’s system, but a legitimate star in the NFL.

4. Derrick Henry (Running Back – Tennessee Titans)

Despite the Tennessee Titans’ struggles in 2024, Derrick Henry continued to produce at an elite level. Henry has been the engine of the Titans’ offense for years, and even in his age-30 season, he showed that he still has plenty of juice left in the tank. He finished the regular season with over 1,400 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, earning him a Second Team All-Pro nod. Henry’s combination of size, speed, and power has made him one of the most difficult players to tackle in the league, and he remains a top-tier running back even as the Titans’ roster has seen a significant turnover. Henry’s consistent excellence over the years has made him a fixture on the All-Pro teams, and his place on the 2024 Second Team was well deserved.

5. Jerry Jeudy (Wide Receiver – Denver Broncos)

Another former Alabama standout to earn All-Pro honors in 2024 was wide receiver Jerry Jeudy. Jeudy’s performance this season showcased his elite route-running and ability to create separation from defenders. Playing with quarterback Russell Wilson, Jeudy was a key factor in the Denver Broncos’ offensive resurgence, finishing the regular season with over 1,100 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns. Jeudy’s selection to the Second Team All-Pro is a reflection of his growth into one of the top receivers in the NFL and a player who can take over games with his speed and agility. After a few years of adjusting to the NFL, Jeudy has solidified himself as one of the premier pass-catchers in the league.

6. Jalen Hurts (Quarterback – Philadelphia Eagles)

Jalen Hurts’ remarkable ascent as an NFL quarterback reached another milestone in 2024, with the Eagles’ star earning First Team All-Pro honors. Hurts has turned into one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL, leading the Eagles to a top seed in the NFC playoffs. Hurts combined his strong arm with incredible athleticism to become a dual-threat nightmare for defenses. He threw for over 4,000 yards and 35 touchdowns while also rushing for nearly 1,000 yards and 12 touchdowns, solidifying his status as one of the league’s most valuable players. Hurts’ leadership on and off the field has propelled the Eagles to continued success, and his First Team All-Pro selection was a testament to his exceptional play in 2024.

Other Notable Crimson Tide Players in the NFL

While the aforementioned players earned All-Pro honors, there are several other former Alabama stars who are making significant impacts on their NFL teams this season. Players like wide receiver Amari Cooper (Cleveland Browns), linebacker Rashaan Evans (Atlanta Falcons), and cornerback Patrick Surtain II (Denver Broncos) have all had stellar seasons, contributing to their respective teams’ success.

Amari Cooper (Wide Receiver – Cleveland Browns)

Amari Cooper, now in his seventh NFL season, continues to be a reliable and explosive weapon for the Cleveland Browns. Cooper finished the season with over 1,000 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns, providing quarterback Deshaun Watson with a top target. His ability to make tough catches and stretch the field has been invaluable to the Browns’ offense, and Cooper remains one of the top wide receivers in the league.

Rashaan Evans (Linebacker – Atlanta Falcons)

Rashaan Evans has been a key player in the middle of the Atlanta Falcons’ defense, leading the team in tackles and providing leadership on the field. Evans is a tough, physical linebacker who excels in both run defense and pass coverage, and his performance in 2024 helped the Falcons reach the playoffs. His ability to read plays and make crucial stops has made him one of the standout defensive players in the NFL.

Patrick Surtain II (Cornerback – Denver Broncos)

Patrick Surtain II has quickly become one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL. His ability to lock down top receivers and his high football IQ make him a key asset for the Denver Broncos. In 2024, Surtain continued to display exceptional coverage skills and made numerous game-changing plays in critical moments. His performance was vital to the Broncos’ defensive success, and he remains one of the most exciting young defensive players in the league.

Wild-Card Playoff Tracker: Bama Players in the Postseason

As the 2024 NFL postseason kicks off, several former Alabama players are looking to make their mark on the playoff stage. The wild-card round features some exciting matchups, and players like Jalen Hurts, Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Quinnen Williams will be crucial to their teams’ success.

Philadelphia Eagles (Jalen Hurts)

The Philadelphia Eagles, led by Jalen Hurts, are one of the top contenders in the NFC. Hurts’ dual-threat ability gives the Eagles a distinct advantage, and with a well-balanced offense and stout defense, the Eagles will look to make a deep playoff run. Hurts’ performance will be key, and his leadership will be put to the test in the wild-card round.

Pittsburgh Steelers (Minkah Fitzpatrick)

Minkah Fitzpatrick’s Pittsburgh Steelers will be a dangerous team in the AFC playoffs. Known for their stout defense, the Steelers will rely on Fitzpatrick’s leadership and playmaking ability to help them advance past the wild-card round. With Fitzpatrick roaming the secondary, the Steelers are always a threat to create turnovers and shift the momentum in their favor.

New York Jets (Quinnen Williams)

Although the Jets missed the playoffs in 2024, Quinnen Williams’ individual performance was a bright spot. His dominance on the defensive line was undeniable, and the Jets’ future looks promising with Williams as the centerpiece of their defense.

Tennessee Titans (Derrick Henry)

Derrick Henry, despite the Titans’ struggles in 2024, remains one of the most potent offensive weapons in the NFL. If the Titans can build around him and establish a strong ground game, Henry could be the difference-maker in any postseason scenario.

Conclusion

The Alabama Crimson Tide continues to have an outsized impact on the NFL, with former players earning All-Pro honors and making significant contributions to their teams. With players like Jalen Hurts, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Quinnen Williams, and others leading the charge, Alabama’s presence in the professional ranks shows no signs of slowing down. As the NFL playoff picture begins to take shape, these players will play crucial roles in determining which teams advance, making the postseason an exciting showcase of Bama’s finest.