Alabama three first-round picks heard their names called on Thursday night

In addition to Alabama’s three first-round picks, who were announced on Thursday night, incoming coach Kalen DeBoer had two top-10 picks.

Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. was selected eighth overall by the Atlanta Falcons, with top receiver Rome Odunze going ninth overall to the Chicago Bears.

It goes without saying that the Washington Huskies had a dynamic offense under Coach DeBoer, but placing a quarterback-wide receiver combination in the top ten of the 2024 NFL Draft adds to the product’s respectability.

Alabama has never had a quarterback and a receiver in the top ten in the same draft class under Nick Saban. It only drafted a quarterback and a wide receiver in the first round twice:

2020: QB Tua Tagovailoa (5th), WR Henry Ruggs (12th), WR Jerry Jeudy (15th)

2021: WR Jaylen Waddle (6th), WR DeVonta Smith (10th), QB Mac Jones (15th)

These two draft classes constitute the most successful three years of offensive football in school history (2018-2020). It’s incredible that Kalen DeBoer, who has yet to coach a game at Alabama, can be mentioned in the same breath when it comes to offensive explosiveness.

Coach DeBoer takes this mindset and offensive scheme to Tuscaloosa, where he should continue to excel. While there is no certainty that Alabama will have a Michael Penix or a Rome Odunze on its 2024 roster, DeBoer will have substantially more skill overall.

In an offense with as many excellent skill players as anyone, quarterback Jalen Milroe is expected to have a breakout season in his second year as starter. Additionally, running backs Justice Haynes and Jam Miller should see a lot of action in space.

Wide receivers Kobe Prentice and Kendrick Law have shown promise over their two years in Tuscaloosa, while Washington transfer Germie Bernard is already familiar with the scheme and the offensive coaching staff. Any of these players has the potential to be Alabama’s next first-round wideout, adding to DeBoer’s resume.