Every year, the Super Bowl serves as the pinnacle of American football, bringing together the best athletes from across the National Football League (NFL) to compete for the ultimate prize. Super Bowl LVII, set to be held in 2023, is no exception—offering a thrilling matchup between two elite teams. But beyond the teams themselves, one of the most exciting elements of the Super Bowl is its reflection of the rich history and talent pool of college football. For fans of Alabama football, this year’s Super Bowl is especially significant, as it will feature no fewer than six players who honed their skills at the University of Alabama—a testament to the powerhouse program that has consistently churned out elite talent for the NFL.
Alabama football, long regarded as one of the best programs in college football history, has a storied tradition of producing top-tier professional athletes. Under the leadership of legendary head coach Nick Saban, Alabama has dominated the recruiting landscape, and many of its former players have gone on to have highly successful careers in the NFL. As Super Bowl LVII approaches, fans of the Crimson Tide will be proud to see that their program’s impact on the professional game is as strong as ever.
Let’s take a closer look at the six Alabama players who will be suiting up in Super Bowl LVII and how their careers have unfolded in the NFL.
1. Derrick Henry – Running Back, Tennessee Titans
One of the most iconic figures in both college football and the NFL, Derrick Henry’s name is synonymous with dominance. Known as “King Henry,” Henry’s monstrous frame (6-foot-3, 247 pounds) and rare combination of speed and power have made him one of the most feared running backs in NFL history. After a standout career at Alabama, where he won the 2015 Heisman Trophy, Henry has translated that success to the pros.
In Super Bowl LVII, Henry’s impact will not be felt directly on the field since the Tennessee Titans did not qualify for the big game. However, his story is noteworthy as he has set a high bar for all players from Alabama to follow. As of 2023, Henry remains one of the premier backs in the NFL. Over his career, he’s led the league in rushing yards and touchdowns, and his remarkable 2,000-yard season in 2020 solidified his status as one of the most elite backs of his era.
Alabama fans will undoubtedly be proud to see one of their own continuing to etch his name into NFL history, and though he’s not playing in this year’s Super Bowl, Henry’s legacy and presence in the NFL are ever-present.
2. Tua Tagovailoa – Quarterback, Miami Dolphins
Tua Tagovailoa’s journey to the NFL has been nothing short of dramatic. After taking over as the starting quarterback for Alabama in 2017, Tagovailoa led the Crimson Tide to a national championship, famously coming in during the second half of the national championship game to throw a game-winning touchdown pass in overtime. His career at Alabama was marked by poise, accuracy, and big-game performances, earning him a top-5 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.
While the Miami Dolphins did not make it to Super Bowl LVII, Tua’s impact on the NFL has been undeniable. He quickly became the face of the Dolphins’ offense, showing flashes of brilliance with his accuracy and ability to lead his team to victories. His development under head coach Brian Flores and now Mike McDaniel has been impressive, and his success will continue to be a point of pride for Alabama fans.
Tua’s story in the NFL has had its ups and downs, especially with injuries, but he remains a rising star with potential to become one of the league’s top quarterbacks. Super Bowl LVII won’t feature him as a player, but he’s certainly one to watch in the coming years as he continues to shape his NFL legacy.
3. Minkah Fitzpatrick – Safety, Pittsburgh Steelers
Minkah Fitzpatrick is another Alabama alum who has made a massive impact in the NFL, and his ability to be a game-changer on defense makes him one of the most exciting players in the league today. After being drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 2018, Fitzpatrick was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2019, where he immediately made a mark as one of the best safeties in the league.
Fitzpatrick’s career has been defined by his ball-hawking ability, leadership, and consistency. Over his years with the Steelers, he has solidified himself as a Pro Bowl-caliber player. His versatility as a safety allows him to play all over the field, making him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. Fitzpatrick’s high football IQ, ability to read the quarterback, and knack for interceptions make him a key figure in Pittsburgh’s defense.
While Fitzpatrick’s Steelers did not make it to Super Bowl LVII, his elite play and consistent production in the NFL will always be a source of pride for Alabama fans. His journey from a star at Alabama to an NFL All-Pro continues to shine a spotlight on the Crimson Tide’s ability to produce top-tier defensive talent.
4. Jonah Williams – Offensive Tackle, Cincinnati Bengals
Jonah Williams was a foundational piece of Alabama’s offensive line for multiple seasons, and he has carried that success into the NFL. Drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Williams quickly became a key cog in the Bengals’ offensive line. His powerful blocking and sharp football IQ have helped protect quarterbacks and pave the way for the running game in Cincinnati.
In Super Bowl LVII, Williams will be part of the Bengals’ offensive line, which has been crucial to their success in recent seasons. The Bengals’ offense, which is led by quarterback Joe Burrow, has made major strides in recent years, and Williams’ contribution to keeping Burrow upright has been significant. Though Williams and the Bengals didn’t reach Super Bowl LVII, the Bengals’ rise to prominence as a playoff contender in recent years has been a major achievement, with Williams playing a key role in that success.
For Alabama fans, seeing a former Tide player like Williams contributing to a young, promising team in the NFL is a proud moment. If Williams continues his strong play, there’s no doubt he’ll be a vital part of any future Super Bowl runs for the Bengals.
5. Jerry Jeudy – Wide Receiver, Denver Broncos
Jerry Jeudy, widely regarded as one of the most talented wide receivers to come out of Alabama in recent years, has continued to shine in the NFL. Known for his precise route-running, excellent hands, and ability to stretch the field, Jeudy was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Jeudy’s first few years in the NFL have been filled with promise, despite the Broncos’ struggles at quarterback. His ability to create separation, make explosive plays, and be a reliable target in key situations has earned him recognition as one of the best young wideouts in the league. Although Jeudy and the Broncos did not make it to the Super Bowl this year, Jeudy’s development and potential make him one of the top wide receivers to watch in the coming seasons.
For Alabama fans, Jeudy’s success in the NFL continues the tradition of exceptional wide receiver play that has been a hallmark of the program for decades. His electric play and ability to impact games make him an exciting player to follow, and he’ll surely be a key contributor to the Broncos’ future playoff hopes.
6. Quinnen Williams – Defensive Tackle, New York Jets
Quinnen Williams, the dominant defensive tackle from Alabama, has quickly become one of the most feared interior defensive linemen in the NFL. Selected by the New York Jets with the third overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, Williams’ explosiveness off the line, combined with his strength and relentless pursuit of the quarterback, has made him one of the top defensive players in the league.
Williams’ performance in recent seasons has been exceptional, with the Jets’ defense being one of the most improved units in the league. His ability to disrupt both the passing and running game has earned him Pro Bowl honors and cemented his place as one of the most dynamic defensive tackles in the NFL. While the Jets did not make it to Super Bowl LVII, Williams’ career trajectory suggests that he will be a key figure for New York as they look to make a deeper playoff run in the future.
Conclusion
The players from Alabama who will participate in Super Bowl LVII (or are already making an impact in the NFL) are a testament to the Crimson Tide’s dominance in producing NFL talent. From the electric skills of Jerry Jeudy to the raw power of Quinnen Williams, Alabama’s legacy is embedded in the NFL, with these athletes representing the strength, discipline, and winning culture fostered in Tuscaloosa.
As the NFL continues to evolve, the tradition of Alabama players making their mark on the biggest stage remains strong. With these six athletes—along with many others who will inevitably follow in their footsteps—the University of Alabama will continue to be a breeding ground for top-tier NFL talent. Whether it’s winning championships, earning Pro Bowl nods, or simply leaving their mark on the league, these players showcase why Alabama football is considered one of the most successful programs in modern history.
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