Way-too-early look at Alabama’s top 2026 NFL draft prospects
After seven players were selected during the 2025 NFL draft, Alabama is now set to see at-least an equal number, if not more, drafted next year, some of which could certainly come within the first round. This will include some names who will be draft-eligible for the first time coming off their junior seasons this fall, as well as a few seniors who could have entered the 2025 NFL draft, but opted-to return to Tuscaloosa instead.
However, as you likely know, a lot can, and likely will, change in between now and the 2026 NFL draft next year, but if you had to take an early look ahead, who could some of Alabama’s top players end up being?
Here is an early look ahead at a few names who could be among Alabama’s biggest names to know in the 2026 NFL draft.
Kadyn Proctor, Offensive Tackle
One of the biggest names that could potentially garner early first round consideration is Proctor, who could very well end up among the top offensive linemen in the 2026 NFL draft. Entering his junior season, Proctor has started at left tackle for Alabama each of the last two seasons, and could help cement himself as a top 2026 pick with a strong fall campaign.
LT Overton, Defensive End
Overton is a player who would’ve likely been a day one-or-two pick in this year’s NFL draft, but instead decided to return to the Crimson Tide for the 2025 season as a senior. The defensive end is coming off a solid first season at Alabama after transferring from Texas A&M where he amassed 42 tackles, three TFL, and two sacks, and could in fact cement himself as a potential first round pick with a strong 2025 campaign.
Domani Jackson, Cornerback
Jackson is a player similar to Overton previously who could’ve entered the 2025 NFL draft as a potential high pick, but instead decided to return to Alabama for his senior season. The former USC transfer had a career-year with the Crimson Tide after transferring to Tuscaloosa last offseason by compiling 52 tackles and two interceptions, and if Jackson has a strong 2025 season, could find himself in the first round next year.
Keon Sabb, Safety
Sabb also could’ve potentially entering the 2025 NFL draft, but decided to return to Alabama coming off an injury. After a career-year in which he amassed 39 tackles and two interceptions during an injury shortened season, Sabb could end up being among the top safeties in the 2026 NFL draft, especially if he returns to the same form from early last season prior to the injury.
Deontae Lawson, Inside Linebacker
Lastly, Lawson is another player who could’ve potentially entered the 2025 NFL draft, but opted-to return to the Crimson Tide next season. A multi-year starter at inside linebacker for Alabama with 194 career tackles, 16 TFL, and five sacks dating back to the 2021 season, Lawson is certainly a name to watch for at the linebacker position, but is also coming off an injury.
In addition to those five, other potential top 2026 NFL draft prospects from Alabama include wide receivers Isaiah Horton and Germie Bernard, center Parker Brailsford, running back Jam Miller, and safety Bray Hubbard, among others.
