An Early Look at the 2025 NFL Draft Prospects for Alabama Football

The University of Alabama football program, long regarded as a powerhouse in college football, consistently produces top-tier talent that has a significant impact at the next level in the NFL. Nick Saban’s emphasis on elite recruiting, player development, and discipline has created a steady pipeline of NFL-caliber athletes. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Alabama is once again expected to feature heavily in the discussion, with numerous players from the program potentially hearing their names called early. While it is still early in the 2024 college football season, several Alabama players already stand out as potential first-round selections or high picks in the 2025 NFL Draft.

In this analysis, we’ll take a look at some of the key players on Alabama’s roster who have the talent to make a significant impact in the 2025 NFL Draft. This early assessment is based on their current form, potential, and how their skills translate to the professional level. While much can change over the course of a season and their draft stock could rise or fall, these prospects are poised to become household names in the NFL draft conversation.

1. Kool-Aid McKinstry – Cornerback (CB)

Overview: Kool-Aid McKinstry is one of the most highly touted cornerbacks in the country entering the 2024 season. The junior from Birmingham, Alabama, has made an immediate impact at Alabama, and he has the potential to develop into one of the top cornerbacks available in the 2025 NFL Draft. With his combination of size, athleticism, and football IQ, McKinstry is a prototypical NFL cornerback who excels in both man-to-man and zone coverage.

Strengths: McKinstry has a fluid backpedal, exceptional burst, and elite ball skills. He’s shown great anticipation and awareness, which allows him to make plays on the ball and disrupt passes. He’s a sticky defender who has the ability to shut down top receivers in the SEC, and his speed and agility allow him to recover quickly if beaten initially. His ability to read quarterbacks and anticipate throws has made him a turnover machine at Alabama. McKinstry’s physicality in run support is also noteworthy, as he isn’t afraid to come up and tackle in space.

NFL Projection: McKinstry projects to be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. He has the traits that NFL scouts covet, particularly his ability to lock down receivers in both zone and man schemes. His length, speed, and ability to create turnovers make him a highly desirable prospect for NFL teams looking to bolster their secondary. With continued development in 2024, he could be one of the top cornerbacks in the draft class.

2. Jalen Milroe – Quarterback (QB)

Overview: Jalen Milroe, Alabama’s starting quarterback heading into 2024, has one of the most intriguing skill sets in the country. The sophomore has the arm strength to make every throw in the book, combined with elite athleticism and the ability to make plays with his legs. While Milroe has shown flashes of brilliance, he still has areas to refine as a passer. If he can put everything together in 2024, Milroe has the potential to rise up the draft boards and become a first-round pick.

Strengths: Milroe’s athleticism is what immediately catches the eye. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing in around 220 pounds, he has the size to absorb hits and the speed to escape pressure and pick up yardage with his legs. His arm strength is impressive, capable of making deep throws downfield with velocity and precision. Milroe’s ability to read defenses and make quick decisions will be key to his development, as will his consistency with touch on intermediate throws. He also has the leadership qualities that NFL teams look for in their quarterbacks.

NFL Projection: Milroe is still a work in progress but has significant upside. His potential as a dual-threat quarterback makes him a fascinating prospect, and if he has a strong 2024 season, he could rise to the top of the quarterback class in the 2025 draft. If he can improve his mechanics, reading of defenses, and overall decision-making, Milroe could be a first-round pick, especially in a league that increasingly values dual-threat quarterbacks.

3. Jermaine Burton – Wide Receiver (WR)

Overview: Jermaine Burton, a veteran receiver with deep ties to Alabama’s offensive success, has the skills to be a top-tier wide receiver in the NFL. After transferring from Georgia, Burton made an immediate impact in Alabama’s offense, demonstrating strong route-running and ball-catching abilities. Heading into the 2024 season, he remains one of the most explosive receivers on the roster, with big-play potential every time he steps on the field.

Strengths: Burton’s speed and acceleration off the line of scrimmage make him a deep threat, capable of stretching defenses and creating big plays. He’s a polished route runner, able to create separation with sharp cuts and excellent footwork. His ability to track the ball and catch passes in traffic also makes him a reliable target in key situations. Burton’s combination of size and speed, along with his ability to separate at the line of scrimmage, gives him a unique advantage in the NFL.

NFL Projection: Burton is likely to be one of the top wide receivers selected in the 2025 NFL Draft. While he might not have the physical dominance of some of his peers, his ability to make plays both downfield and in the intermediate game will make him an attractive option for NFL teams looking for a versatile, dynamic receiver. He projects as a Day 2 pick, with the potential to move into the first round with a strong showing in the 2024 season.

4. Dallas Turner – Edge Rusher (OLB)

Overview: Dallas Turner has been a standout defensive player for Alabama since his freshman year. He has quickly established himself as one of the top edge rushers in the country, with a relentless motor and excellent pass-rushing ability. As a sophomore in 2023, Turner showed incredible potential, and with another year of development, he could become one of the top defensive prospects in the 2025 draft class.

Strengths: Turner has an explosive first step off the line of scrimmage, which allows him to beat offensive tackles quickly. His bend and ability to turn the corner are remarkable for his size (6-foot-4, 250 pounds). He is a relentless pass rusher who consistently puts pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and he has shown the ability to set the edge in run defense. Turner’s physicality and high motor make him a nightmare for opposing offensive lines, and his ability to disrupt plays in the backfield is one of his biggest assets.

NFL Projection: Dallas Turner is a potential top-10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. His combination of speed, power, and relentless effort make him one of the most highly coveted edge rusher prospects in the nation. If he continues to improve and refine his pass-rush technique, he could be one of the first defensive players off the board.

5. James Smith – Defensive Tackle (DT)

Overview: James Smith is a versatile defensive tackle who can dominate both in the run game and as a pass rusher. A physical specimen at 6-foot-3, 320 pounds, Smith has the strength and explosiveness to wreak havoc in the trenches. His combination of size, strength, and agility makes him one of the top interior defensive line prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft.

Strengths: Smith is a powerful and disruptive force in the interior of Alabama’s defense. His ability to clog running lanes and disengage from blockers makes him a standout against the run. As a pass rusher, Smith shows an impressive burst off the line and the ability to push the pocket. His power and ability to shed blockers give him the tools to become a dominant force at the next level. Smith’s work ethic and motor are also highly praised, making him a reliable presence in the defensive front.

NFL Projection: Smith projects to be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, with his combination of size, strength, and athleticism. He is the type of defensive tackle who can make an impact in both the running and passing games, which will make him a highly sought-after player for NFL teams looking to improve their defensive line.

6. Amari Niblack – Tight End (TE)

Overview: Amari Niblack is one of the most intriguing tight end prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft. At 6-foot-4, 245 pounds, Niblack possesses the size and athleticism to be a true dual-threat tight end, excelling both in the passing game and as a blocker. While he has not yet reached his full potential at Alabama, his upside makes him an intriguing prospect.

Strengths: Niblack is a physical specimen with the ability to line up as a traditional tight end, H-back, or even in the slot. His hands and ability to catch passes in traffic make him a reliable target in the passing game, while his blocking skills make him an asset in the run game. Niblack’s athleticism and speed allow him to create mismatches with defenders, as he can run past linebackers or overpower safeties. His versatility in multiple roles gives him a high ceiling at the next level.

NFL Projection: Niblack is a solid Day 2 prospect in the 2025 draft. If he can continue to develop as a blocker and improve his route-running, he could work his way into the first round. His combination of size and athleticism will make him a valuable weapon for NFL teams.