Nine Alabama Players to Attend the NFL Combine

The 2025 NFL Combine is set to feature a total of nine Alabama football players, showcasing the talent and depth that Nick Saban’s program continues to develop. Year after year, Alabama has been a hotbed for NFL talent, with numerous players earning invitations to the prestigious event. The Combine, taking place in Indianapolis, is a critical step in the evaluation process for NFL teams as they prepare for the upcoming draft.

The NFL Combine is an opportunity for prospects to not only display their athleticism but also meet with teams, perform drills, and interview with scouts and front-office personnel. For the Alabama players attending the 2025 NFL Combine, it is the culmination of years of hard work and the beginning of their journey into the professional ranks.

Alabama, under head coach Nick Saban, has built a reputation for producing NFL-caliber talent year after year. The 2025 class is no different, with a diverse group of players attending the Combine, ranging from offensive stars to defensive juggernauts. This article will provide an in-depth look at these nine players, their college careers, and what makes them such promising NFL prospects.

1. Bryce Young (Quarterback)

Career Overview: Bryce Young is one of the most highly anticipated quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft class. The reigning Heisman Trophy winner from 2021, Young’s resume at Alabama is nothing short of remarkable. As the starting quarterback for the Crimson Tide for two seasons, he led the team to numerous victories, including a trip to the National Championship game in 2021. In his career, Young threw for over 8,000 yards and 79 touchdowns, with a passer rating that consistently placed him among the top in the nation.

What He Brings to the NFL Combine: At the NFL Combine, Bryce Young will have the opportunity to showcase his elite throwing accuracy, poise under pressure, and football IQ. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing around 195 pounds, Young may not be the biggest quarterback, but his arm strength, footwork, and leadership are what make him a top-tier prospect. Teams will closely watch his throwing mechanics, mobility in the pocket, and ability to read defenses.

What to Expect in the Draft: Given his impressive college resume and strong performances in big games, Young is expected to be one of the first quarterbacks selected in the 2025 NFL Draft. His ability to make plays from the pocket and his calm demeanor in clutch moments make him an ideal fit for NFL offenses that require a smart, efficient leader at the quarterback position.

2. Jahmyr Gibbs (Running Back)

Career Overview: Jahmyr Gibbs transferred to Alabama from Georgia Tech before the 2022 season, and he immediately made an impact in the Crimson Tide backfield. Known for his explosive speed, vision, and ability to catch passes out of the backfield, Gibbs became a dual-threat weapon in Alabama’s offense. In his two seasons at Alabama, Gibbs rushed for over 1,000 yards and demonstrated his ability to break off big plays both on the ground and as a receiving threat.

What He Brings to the NFL Combine: Gibbs is expected to shine at the Combine due to his elite athleticism. A 4.4-second 40-yard dash could be in the cards for the versatile back, who’s known for his ability to accelerate through tight holes and breakaway from defenders. His agility, vision, and ability to make defenders miss will also be on display in the drills. Gibbs is a perfect fit for modern NFL offenses, which value running backs who can contribute both in the ground game and as a receiving option.

What to Expect in the Draft: Gibbs is a dynamic player who could be a first- or second-round pick, depending on how he performs at the Combine and during the draft process. His skill set makes him a coveted player in the NFL, especially in passing-heavy offenses that utilize running backs in a variety of roles.

3. Will Anderson Jr. (Edge Rusher)

Career Overview: Will Anderson Jr. is one of the most dominant defensive players in recent Alabama history. Over his three seasons at Alabama, Anderson became the face of the Crimson Tide defense, accumulating 34.5 sacks and 58 tackles for loss. He was a consensus All-American multiple times and won numerous defensive awards, including the SEC Defensive Player of the Year. Anderson’s relentless pass-rushing ability and disruptive presence in the backfield make him one of the most feared defenders in college football.

What He Brings to the NFL Combine: Anderson will undoubtedly be one of the most talked-about prospects at the Combine. He’s expected to impress scouts with his combination of size (6’4″, 245 lbs), speed, and agility. His ability to rush the passer off the edge, disrupt running plays, and impact the game in a variety of ways will be the focus of many NFL teams. His vertical jump and 40-yard dash time will be closely scrutinized, as will his ability to showcase explosive strength in bench presses and other agility drills.

What to Expect in the Draft: Anderson is widely regarded as one of the best players in the 2025 draft class and is projected to be a top-five pick. His skill set as an edge rusher is elite, and he’s expected to make an immediate impact on whichever NFL team selects him. Whether he’s lining up as a traditional pass rusher or as a linebacker in certain schemes, Anderson’s versatility and game-changing ability will make him one of the most sought-after prospects.

4. Henry To’o To’o (Linebacker)

Career Overview: Henry To’o To’o has been a consistent and reliable presence in the Alabama defense since transferring from Tennessee in 2021. As a middle linebacker, To’o To’o has showcased his leadership, field awareness, and tackling ability. Throughout his career at Alabama, he accumulated over 250 tackles, with numerous interceptions and pass deflections. His ability to read the offense, make key tackles, and lead the defense made him an integral part of the Crimson Tide’s success.

What He Brings to the NFL Combine: At the Combine, To’o To’o will be tested on his agility, speed, and ability to cover ground quickly. His 40-yard dash time and performance in the shuttle drills will be critical, as NFL teams look for linebackers who can cover both sideline-to-sideline and in pass coverage. While not the biggest linebacker (standing at 6 feet and weighing 227 pounds), his quickness, ability to diagnose plays, and leadership on the field will be key elements for NFL teams to evaluate.

What to Expect in the Draft: To’o To’o is expected to be a mid-round pick, with his draft position depending on his performance in the Combine. A versatile linebacker with the ability to stop the run and cover the pass is always valuable in the NFL, and To’o To’o could carve out a significant role early in his career.

5. Brian Branch (Defensive Back)

Career Overview: Brian Branch is one of the most talented defensive backs to come out of Alabama in recent years. As a safety/nickelback hybrid, Branch’s versatility allows him to cover a variety of roles in the secondary. During his time at Alabama, Branch was known for his ability to make plays in both the passing game and against the run. He finished his career with 12 pass breakups, five interceptions, and several tackles for loss.

What He Brings to the NFL Combine: Branch will impress at the Combine with his ability to cover ground quickly and his agility in tight spaces. His 40-yard dash time and ability to change direction will be a big point of emphasis. Branch’s versatility makes him an attractive prospect, as NFL teams increasingly value defensive backs who can line up in multiple positions and cover a wide range of offensive schemes.

What to Expect in the Draft: Branch is likely to be selected in the second or third round of the draft. His combination of coverage ability, versatility, and physicality make him a strong candidate for a starting role in the NFL.

6. Tyler Steen (Offensive Tackle)

Career Overview: Tyler Steen transferred from Vanderbilt to Alabama before the 2022 season and quickly became a key piece of the Crimson Tide offensive line. A versatile and athletic offensive tackle, Steen played both left and right tackle during his time at Alabama, showcasing his ability to protect the quarterback’s blind side and run-block effectively. His experience and leadership along the line helped solidify one of the best offensive lines in college football.

What He Brings to the NFL Combine: Steen’s size (6’5″, 325 lbs) and athleticism will be on full display at the Combine. Teams will evaluate his footwork, blocking technique, and ability to move in space. The ability to anchor against powerful defensive linemen will be a key area of focus. Steen’s ability to play multiple positions along the offensive line will also make him a valuable commodity for NFL teams looking for versatile linemen.

What to Expect in the Draft: Steen is expected to be a mid-round pick, with the potential to become a starter early in his NFL career. His experience at Alabama, coupled with his skill set and versatility, make him an attractive prospect for teams looking to strengthen their offensive line.

7. Kool-Aid McKinstry (Cornerback)

Career Overview: Kool-Aid McKinstry is a standout cornerback who has been one of the top players in the Alabama secondary over the past few seasons. Known for his ability to lock down wide receivers and make critical plays in the passing game, McKinstry has established himself as one of the top cornerback prospects in college football. His performance on the field has earned him multiple accolades, and he’s been a key component of Alabama’s defensive dominance.

What He Brings to the NFL Combine: McKinstry is expected to impress at the Combine with his speed, quickness, and coverage ability. His 40-yard dash time will be closely watched, as will his ability to mirror receivers in agility drills. His ball skills and ability to make interceptions will also be important to showcase, as NFL teams look for cornerbacks who can make plays in critical moments.

What to Expect in the Draft: McKinstry is likely to be drafted in the first or second round, depending on his performance at the Combine. His combination of speed, agility, and ball-hawking ability make him a top-tier prospect at the cornerback position.

8. Deontae Lawson (Linebacker)

Career Overview: Deontae Lawson was a key contributor on Alabama’s defense as an inside linebacker. Known for his tackling ability, leadership, and football IQ, Lawson played a crucial role in the middle of the field, both against the run and in pass coverage. His career was marked by consistent production, and he’s been a standout in practices and games for the Crimson Tide.

What He Brings to the NFL Combine: Lawson will be evaluated for his physicality, speed, and ability to cover in space. Teams will be looking for linebackers who can play sideline-to-sideline, and Lawson’s agility and ability to read plays will be a key area of focus.

What to Expect in the Draft: Lawson is expected to be a mid-to-late round pick, with the potential to contribute early on special teams and eventually compete for a starting role.

9. Emil Ekiyor Jr. (Offensive Guard)

Career Overview: Emil Ekiyor Jr. was a steady presence on Alabama’s offensive line for several seasons. As a powerful and technical guard, Ekiyor played a vital role in protecting Alabama’s quarterbacks and opening up holes in the run game. His leadership and experience make him an important piece of the Crimson Tide’s success during his tenure.

What He Brings to the NFL Combine: At the Combine, Ekiyor will be tested on his strength, agility, and footwork. His ability to anchor against powerful defensive linemen will be a major focus, and his versatility as a guard makes him an appealing option for NFL teams.

What to Expect in the Draft: Ekiyor is projected to be a late-round pick but could be a valuable depth piece for an NFL team, providing immediate support on the offensive line.

The nine Alabama players attending the NFL Combine represent the elite talent that Nick Saban and his coaching staff have developed over the years. From the dynamic playmaking ability of Bryce Young and Jahmyr Gibbs to the dominance of Will Anderson Jr. on defense, this group has the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL. With the Combine just around the corner, these players will look to further solidify their draft stock and showcase the skills that made them standouts at Alabama.