Why Kadyn Proctor Returned to Alabama Football

Kadyn Proctor’s football journey has been anything but conventional. The 6-foot-7, 360-pound offensive tackle from Southeast Polk High School in Pleasant Hill, Iowa, entered the world of college football with sky-high expectations. A five-star recruit and one of the most highly sought-after offensive linemen in the 2023 class, Proctor’s decision-making would soon become one of the most talked-about stories in recent college football. After initially committing to the University of Iowa, a brief stint at Alabama, a return to Iowa, and finally another transfer back to Alabama, Proctor’s journey has highlighted the challenges of navigating both personal and professional aspirations in college sports.

The Rise to Prominence

Kadyn Proctor’s rise to national attention began early in high school. His dominant performances on the football field made him a highly coveted prospect by major college football programs across the country. As one of the top offensive tackles in the nation, Proctor’s combination of size, strength, and technique made him a standout recruit in the 2023 class. He was recognized for his ability to control the line of scrimmage, making him a critical asset for any college program looking to build a powerful offensive line.

Given his pedigree, Proctor was initially drawn to the University of Iowa, where he committed in 2022. For many athletes, staying close to home and playing for a familiar program offers a sense of comfort. Iowa, with its storied football history and reputation for developing offensive linemen, seemed like the perfect fit. Proctor was expected to come in and contribute immediately, becoming a cornerstone of the Hawkeyes’ offensive line.

The Shift to Alabama

However, as the recruitment process continued, Proctor started to entertain the idea of joining a program with higher championship aspirations. Despite Iowa’s strong football pedigree, Alabama, under the legendary Nick Saban, has long been regarded as one of the top programs in the country—especially for athletes seeking national championships and NFL exposure. In December 2022, Proctor decommitted from Iowa and pledged his commitment to the University of Alabama.

For Proctor, this decision wasn’t just about football—it was about placing himself in a program that would challenge him to grow and reach his fullest potential. Alabama has been a consistent powerhouse in college football, winning multiple national championships under Saban’s leadership. The allure of playing for a program with the pedigree of Alabama, coupled with the chance to learn under Saban, was a powerful motivator. Proctor’s decision was a huge win for the Crimson Tide, as they were able to secure one of the most coveted recruits in the country.

Freshman Year at Alabama: The Pressure and Promise

Proctor’s first year at Alabama was an important milestone in his development as a player. Starting at left tackle as a true freshman, he faced the immense pressure of not only living up to the hype that surrounded his recruitment but also filling a vital role on one of the most successful college football teams in recent history. Despite the usual struggles that come with the transition from high school to college football, Proctor performed admirably in his first season.

Throughout the 2023 season, Proctor showcased his physicality and technical prowess, earning accolades for his efforts. His ability to protect the quarterback and pave the way for the running game was crucial for Alabama’s offense. He was named to the Freshman All-American team and earned a spot on the First-Team All-SEC Freshman list—recognition that solidified his place as one of the most promising young offensive linemen in college football.

But as much as Proctor’s freshman year was filled with growth and success, there was an underlying sense of uncertainty about the future of Alabama football.

The Unexpected Twist: Nick Saban’s Retirement

In the early months of 2024, a seismic shift occurred in the world of Alabama football: Coach Nick Saban announced that he would retire from coaching. Saban’s departure marked the end of an era for Alabama football, and for Proctor, it was a moment that caused significant reflection. Saban had been the primary reason for Proctor’s initial commitment to Alabama. Under his leadership, the Crimson Tide had become a perennial contender for national championships, and Proctor had hoped to develop under one of the greatest minds in the history of college football.

Saban’s retirement left a void, and many players who had committed to Alabama began to reassess their future in Tuscaloosa. Proctor, unsure of the program’s direction without Saban at the helm, made the difficult decision to transfer. He returned to Iowa, where he had originally committed, hoping that a return to familiar surroundings would provide the stability and clarity he needed.

The Iowa Experience: Disconnect and Realization

Proctor’s time at Iowa was brief and uneventful. Despite returning to his home state, Proctor soon realized that the Hawkeyes were not the right fit for him. One of the most significant factors in his decision to leave Alabama was the culture of Iowa’s program. While Iowa is known for its strong team-oriented culture, Proctor found it difficult to connect with the team in the same way he had at Alabama.

During his time at Iowa, Proctor came to terms with the realization that his goals and ambitions did not align with the Hawkeyes’ current football philosophy. Proctor, who had aspirations of competing for national championships, found himself frustrated by a lack of conversations surrounding high-level goals such as a national title. For someone with Proctor’s talent and vision, the prospect of a more competitive and championship-driven environment was crucial.

The Return to Alabama

After just three months at Iowa, Proctor made the decision to re-enter the transfer portal. This time, however, his choice was clear: he would return to Alabama. For Proctor, the decision to come back was driven by his desire to play in a program with the resources, coaching, and culture necessary to help him achieve his dreams. Although Alabama had undergone significant changes in the wake of Saban’s retirement, the program’s legacy and commitment to excellence were still intact.

Upon his return, Proctor took the time to apologize to Alabama’s offensive coordinator, Kalen DeBoer, for not giving the coaching staff a fair chance during his initial tenure. Proctor acknowledged that his decision to leave had been made hastily, and he was ready to refocus and dedicate himself fully to the team and its goals.

A New Chapter: Proctor’s Impact in 2024

Proctor’s second stint at Alabama was marked by maturity and growth. As the 2024 season approached, Proctor was once again tasked with anchoring Alabama’s offensive line. This time, however, his perspective had changed. No longer just a highly touted freshman, Proctor was a seasoned player who had learned valuable lessons about commitment, culture, and personal growth.

In the 2024 season, Proctor played a pivotal role in protecting the Crimson Tide’s quarterback and establishing the offensive line as one of the team’s strongest units. His performances on the field earned him Second-Team All-SEC honors and helped solidify Alabama’s place as a national contender. The Alabama offense, fueled by Proctor’s leadership and prowess, became one of the most formidable in college football.