Who is the best Alabama football player of all time?
Determining the greatest Alabama football player of all time is a subjective endeavor, as the University of Alabama boasts a rich history filled with numerous legendary athletes. However, several individuals stand out due to their exceptional performances, accolades, and lasting impact on the program.
Derrick Thomas
Derrick Thomas is widely regarded as one of the most dominant linebackers in college football history. During his time at Alabama from 1985 to 1988, he set the NCAA record for sacks in a single season with 27 in 1988, a record that still stands. Over his collegiate career, Thomas accumulated 52 sacks, 68 tackles for loss, and five blocked kicks. He was a unanimous All-American in 1988 and won the Butkus Award, given to the nation’s top linebacker. Thomas was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2014 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009.
Derrick Henry
Derrick Henry’s impact on Alabama football is undeniable. In the 2015 season, he rushed for a school- and SEC-record 2,219 yards, leading the nation and earning the Heisman Trophy, Maxwell Award, Doak Walker Award, and Walter Camp Award. Henry’s performance was instrumental in Alabama’s national championship victory that year. He was a unanimous All-American and the SEC Offensive Player of the Year. Henry’s dominance on the field solidified his place among Alabama’s all-time greats.
Don Hutson
Don Hutson revolutionized the wide receiver position during his time at Alabama from 1932 to 1934. He was known for his exceptional route running, hands, and ability to stretch the field. Hutson was a two-time All-American and played a pivotal role in Alabama’s 1935 Rose Bowl victory over Stanford, catching six passes for 165 yards and two touchdowns. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1951 and is considered one of the pioneers of modern football.
John Hannah
John Hannah is widely regarded as one of the greatest offensive linemen in football history. During his time at Alabama from 1970 to 1972, he was a two-time All-American and helped lead the Crimson Tide to an SEC championship in 1971. Hannah’s dominance on the offensive line was a key factor in Alabama’s success during his tenure. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1991 and is considered a standard-bearer for offensive linemen.
Lee Roy Jordan
Lee Roy Jordan was a standout linebacker for Alabama from 1960 to 1962. He was a two-time All-American and was known for his toughness, intelligence, and leadership on the field. Jordan played a crucial role in Alabama’s 1962 national championship season and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1983. His legacy as a defensive stalwart remains a benchmark for future generations.
Julio Jones
Julio Jones was a dynamic wide receiver for Alabama from 2008 to 2010. Known for his incredible athleticism, strength, and hands, Jones was a game-changer for the Crimson Tide. During his college career, he amassed 2,653 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns, becoming a key player in Alabama’s 2009 national championship season. Jones continued his dominance in the NFL, becoming one of the league’s premier wide receivers with multiple Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors.
Joe Namath
Joe Namath, known as “Broadway Joe,” played quarterback for Alabama from 1962 to 1964. He led the Crimson Tide to a national championship in 1964 and was known for his strong arm and charismatic personality. Namath was a two-time All-American and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1985. His success at Alabama paved the way for a Hall of Fame career in the NFL, where he became a cultural icon.
Cornelius Bennett
Cornelius Bennett was a dominant linebacker for Alabama from 1983 to 1986. He was a three-time All-American and won the Lombardi Award in 1986 as the nation’s top lineman. Bennett’s ability to disrupt opposing offenses and make big plays in crucial moments made him a cornerstone of the Crimson Tide defense. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2005.
Shaun Alexander
Shaun Alexander was a standout running back for Alabama from 1996 to 1999. He was a first-team All-American in 1999 and set numerous records during his college career. Alexander went on to have a successful NFL career, earning the NFL MVP award in 2005 and becoming the Seattle Seahawks’ all-time leading rusher. His contributions to both Alabama and the NFL solidify his place among the program’s all-time greats.
Ken Stabler
Ken “The Snake” Stabler was a charismatic and talented quarterback for Alabama from 1965 to 1967. He led the Crimson Tide to an undefeated season in 1966, culminating in a Sugar Bowl victory. Stabler’s legacy at Alabama is defined by his leadership and his knack for delivering in crucial moments. He went on to have a successful NFL career, winning a Super Bowl with the Oakland Raiders and earning a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Conclusion
While many players have left an indelible mark on Alabama football, Derrick Thomas stands out as the greatest of all time. His unparalleled pass-rushing ability, record-breaking performances, and lasting legacy both at Alabama and in the NFL make him a true legend of the game. However, the contributions of other players such as Derrick Henry, Don Hutson, John Hannah, Lee Roy Jordan, Julio Jones, Joe Namath, Cornelius Bennett, Shaun Alexander, and Ken Stabler have also significantly shaped the rich history of Alabama football. Each of these individuals brought unique talents and leadership to the field, ensuring that Alabama’s legacy as a powerhouse in college football continues to thrive.
