The most recent Sports Illustrated First-Round Mock Draft includes two Alabama players.

The Most Recent Sports Illustrated First-Round Mock Draft Includes Two Alabama Players

As the NFL Draft approaches, the excitement surrounding the first round reaches a fever pitch. Scouts, analysts, and fans eagerly speculate on which college stars will take the leap to the next level and which teams will snag these talents to fill crucial needs. Among the most talked-about programs in the country is the University of Alabama, a football powerhouse known for producing elite prospects who transition seamlessly to the professional ranks.

The most recent Sports Illustrated first-round mock draft has generated significant buzz in the world of football, particularly among Alabama fans. Two Alabama players have made their mark in the first round, a testament to the program’s continued dominance in player development and its ability to churn out top-tier talent year after year. The two Alabama players that have been highlighted in the mock draft are linebacker Will Anderson Jr. and quarterback Bryce Young—both of whom are projected to be early selections in the upcoming draft.

In this article, we will dive deep into these two standout players, their journeys from high school to Alabama, their performances in college, and what they bring to the NFL table. We will also discuss the impact of their potential selection in the first round, what it means for Alabama football, and how these two players might shape the future of their respective NFL teams.

Bryce Young: The Quarterback with Unmatched Vision

Bryce Young, a name synonymous with Alabama football excellence, has been one of the most anticipated quarterback prospects for several years. As the 2021 Heisman Trophy winner, Young had one of the most impressive careers in Alabama history, setting records, leading his team to the College Football Playoff (CFP), and displaying a rare combination of poise, leadership, and on-field intelligence. Now, as he enters the NFL Draft, Young is considered by many to be one of the top quarterback prospects in recent years, and his potential first-round selection is a reflection of his immense talent.

The Path to Alabama and His College Success

Young’s journey to Alabama began when he was a highly regarded high school prospect out of Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, California. Known for his accuracy, athleticism, and ability to read defenses, Young was a highly sought-after recruit, ultimately choosing Alabama over numerous other elite programs. His decision to play for Nick Saban was pivotal, as Saban’s system and coaching have historically turned quarterbacks into NFL-ready talents.

In his freshman year, Young served as a backup to Mac Jones, who led Alabama to a national championship. However, it wasn’t long before Young earned the starting job and began to make his mark. In his first season as a starter (2021), he led Alabama to an SEC title and a berth in the CFP National Championship Game, where he showcased his ability to perform under pressure, even though the Tide ultimately fell short against Georgia.

However, it was in the 2022 season that Young truly solidified his status as a future first-round pick. Despite an up-and-down season for the Alabama offense, Young’s individual performance was nothing short of spectacular. He finished the year with 3,328 passing yards, 32 touchdowns, and just five interceptions, proving that he could excel even when surrounded by a less-than-perfect supporting cast. His ability to stay calm in the pocket, make quick decisions, and deliver pinpoint throws in critical moments made him a standout among other top quarterbacks in the draft class.

What Bryce Young Brings to the NFL

At just 6 feet tall and weighing 194 pounds, Young is on the smaller side compared to many NFL quarterbacks, which has led some analysts to question his durability at the next level. However, what he lacks in size, he more than makes up for in his elite football IQ, vision, and accuracy. Young’s ability to make all the throws—whether it’s a deep ball, a touch pass, or a quick slant—sets him apart from many of his peers. His anticipation and ability to read defenses before the snap give him a significant advantage, allowing him to make quick decisions that can outsmart opposing defenses.

Furthermore, Young’s mobility should not be overlooked. While he’s not necessarily a dual-threat quarterback in the traditional sense, his ability to extend plays and make throws on the run makes him difficult to defend. His calmness under pressure and ability to handle adversity is a major asset for any NFL team looking for a franchise quarterback who can lead in the clutch.

One of the key reasons Young is projected to be a first-round pick is his leadership qualities. Throughout his career at Alabama, he demonstrated an ability to command the huddle, rally his teammates, and remain poised even in the most intense situations. In many ways, he’s the complete package—an intelligent, accurate, and mentally tough quarterback who is ready to step into the NFL and make an immediate impact.

Bryce Young’s Potential Fit in the NFL

While there is some uncertainty around where Young will land in the draft, many analysts believe he is a top-tier prospect. Teams like the Carolina Panthers, Indianapolis Colts, and Houston Texans—each in need of a quarterback—could be ideal landing spots for Young. His skill set makes him a good fit for a team looking to build an offense around a smart, accurate passer who can quickly grasp an NFL playbook and deliver results.

Regardless of where he lands, it’s clear that Bryce Young has the potential to be a cornerstone player for an NFL franchise for years to come.

Will Anderson Jr.: The Elite Pass Rusher

While Bryce Young garners attention for his playmaking abilities as a quarterback, Will Anderson Jr. is one of the most dominant defensive players in college football. As a linebacker and edge rusher for the Alabama Crimson Tide, Anderson was the engine of Alabama’s defense during his tenure in Tuscaloosa. His combination of athleticism, power, and relentless motor makes him one of the most exciting prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft.

The Rise of Will Anderson Jr.

Anderson’s rise to prominence began at a young age, as he was a highly regarded recruit out of Hampton, Georgia. Much like Young, Anderson made an early commitment to Alabama, choosing to play for Nick Saban over a host of other major programs. His first few seasons at Alabama were marked by rapid development and growth, but it wasn’t until his sophomore season that Anderson truly began to shine on the national stage.

In 2021, Anderson led the country with 17.5 sacks and 34.5 tackles for loss, earning unanimous All-American honors and the title of SEC Defensive Player of the Year. His ability to wreak havoc in the backfield and disrupt the quarterback’s rhythm made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. However, it was his leadership and consistency that made him an even more valuable asset to the Alabama defense.

Throughout the 2022 season, Anderson continued his dominance, finishing the year with 10 sacks and 17 tackles for loss, despite being the focal point of opposing offensive schemes. Anderson’s ability to take on double-teams and still produce significant numbers speaks volumes about his talent and work ethic. His combination of speed, strength, and technique has made him a top-tier prospect, and it’s easy to see why many analysts believe he will be a top-five pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

What Will Anderson Jr. Brings to the NFL

Anderson’s skill set as an edge rusher is what sets him apart from other prospects in this draft class. His quick first step off the line of scrimmage, combined with his powerful hands and ability to shed blockers, makes him one of the most complete pass rushers in recent memory. His relentless motor means that he’s never out of a play, and he consistently finds ways to disrupt the quarterback’s timing, even when the play doesn’t initially break his way.

Beyond his pass-rushing prowess, Anderson is also a versatile linebacker who can play in various defensive schemes. He’s capable of dropping into coverage, stopping the run, and providing support on all three downs. This versatility gives him the ability to fit into multiple defensive systems at the next level, making him an attractive prospect for NFL teams with different defensive philosophies.

His leadership and work ethic are also significant factors in his draft stock. Throughout his career, Anderson has been lauded not just for his on-field performance but also for his leadership in the locker room. He is known for being a vocal and motivating presence, which is something NFL teams value highly, especially in a player who will be expected to contribute immediately.

Will Anderson Jr.’s Potential Fit in the NFL

Anderson is expected to be a high first-round pick, with teams such as the Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, and Seattle Seahawks—each in need of pass rushers—expressing interest. His ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks and create chaos on defense will make him an immediate contributor to whichever team selects him.

Teams looking to rebuild their defense around an elite pass rusher will likely consider Anderson a top target. With his combination of physical traits, technique, and mental toughness, Anderson could quickly develop into one of the league’s premier edge rushers.

The Alabama Legacy and the NFL Draft

The inclusion of both Bryce Young and Will Anderson Jr. in Sports Illustrated’s first-round mock draft highlights the sustained success of Alabama football in producing elite NFL talent. Under Nick Saban’s leadership, Alabama has consistently been a breeding ground for top-tier professionals, and the 2025 draft is no exception. Whether it’s Young’s precision as a quarterback or Anderson’s power and speed as a pass rusher, both players represent the future of the NFL, and their impact on the league could be profound.

As the draft approaches, fans and analysts alike will continue to speculate on where these two players will land and what kind of impact they will have at the next level. One thing is for certain: Alabama football remains one of the most successful programs in college football, and the legacy of its players will continue to shape the NFL for years to come.