Few college football programs can match the pedigree and success of the Alabama Crimson Tide. With a legacy built on championships, high-level coaching, and relentless focus on player development, it is no surprise that Alabama consistently produces NFL-ready talent. One team that has significantly benefited from this talent pipeline in recent years is the Philadelphia Eagles. As of the 2024 season, the Eagles boast five Alabama alumni on their roster strengthening their team with players who are battle-tested from years of competing at the highest collegiate level.
This deep Crimson Tide connection within the Eagles organization is more than just a coincidence – it’s a testament to ALabama’s ability to develop top-tier talent that seamlessly transitions to the NFL. From dominant defensive players to explosive offensive weapons, these former Alabama stars are leaving their mark in Philadelphia. Let’s take a closer look at the Alabama Crimson Tide Football alumni currently on the Eagles roster, their impact on the team, and what their presence says about the continued dominance in Alabama Football.
DeVonta Smith – The Heisman Winning Playmaker
One of the most electrifying wide receivers in Alabama history, DeVonta Smith took home the Heisman Trophy in 2020 after an incredible senior season that saw him collect 1,856 receiving yards and 23 touchdowns. His elite route-running, hands, and big-play ability made him a recognizable prospect for the Eagles, who selected him with the 10th overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft.
Since joining Philadelphia, Smith has lived up to his greatness. Teaming up with A.J Brown, he has helped create one of the most formidable receiving duos in the NFL. His chemistry with Jalen Hurts, another Alabama connection, has been a crucial part of the Eagles offensive success. Whether making contested catches in the red zone or turning short passes into explosive plays, Smith has been a vital weapon in the Eagles’ arsenal.
Smith’s impact extends beyond just his performance on the field. He is part of an elite group of only five players in history to have won the Heisman Trophy, a college football national championship, and a Super Bowl. Additionally, he holds the distinction of being the first Alabama-drafted player to score a touchdown in a Super Bowl, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players to come out of Tuscaloosa.
Jalen Hurts – The Franchise Quarterback
Jalen Hurts’ journey is one of resilience, leadership, and elite playmaking. While his college career included a transfer to Oklahoma, his roots as an Alabama quarterback remain significant. Hurts started as a true freshman for the Tide in 2016, leading them to a national championship appearance and winning SEC Offensive Player of the Year. Though he was eventually replaced by Tua Tagovailoa in the 2018 National Championship game, Hurts showed incredible poise and maturity by staying at Alabama for another season before transferring to Oklahoma for his final collegiate year.
The Eagles took a chance on Hurts in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, and he has since developed into one of the top quarterbacks in the league. His dual-threat ability, leadership, and clutch performances have made him the face of the franchise. In 2022, he led the Eagles to a Super Bowl appearance, further proving that Alabama produces not just talented players but also strong leaders.
Landon Dickerson – The Anchor on the Offensive Line
Landon Dickerson, a dominant force on Alabama’s offensive line, played a critical role in the Tide’s national championship-winning season in 2020. His toughness, versatility, and leadership made him one of the best lineman in college football. The Eagles selected him in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, and he quickly became a key piece of their offensive line.
Now a Pro Bowl-caliber guard, Dickerson has been instrumental in protecting Jalen Hurts and paving the way for the Eagles’ powerful rushing attack. His ability to hold his own against elite defensive linemen has solidified Philadelphia’s offensive line as one of the best in the league.
The Alabama Influence in Philadelphia
The Presence of multiple Alabama alumni on the Eagles speaks volumes about the program’s ability to prepare players for the NFL. Not only are these players talented, but they are also bring a championship mindset, discipline, and leadership that are hallmarks of Alabama football.
For the Eagles, this Crimson Tide connection has been instrumental in building a team capable of contending for Super Bowls. Whether it’s Hurts commanding the offense, Smith making game-changing catches, Dickerson dominating in the trenches, or Jobe and Ricks solidifying the defense, Alabama’s fingerprints are all over Philadelphia’s success.
As long as Nick Saban continues to produce elite talent, the pipeline from Tuscaloosa to the NFL-and specifically to teams like the Eagles-will remain strong. If Philadelphia continues to benefit from Alabama’s top-tier talent, we might just see more Crimson Tide alumni donning the Eagles’ midnight green in the years to come.
