The 2024 NFL season proved to be another remarkable year for former Alabama football players, with several making significant impacts across the league. The Associated Press released its All-Pro 1st Team, and three former Crimson Tide defensive backs were honored: Pat Surtain II, Marlon Humphrey, and Xavier McKinney.
Pat Surtain II
Pat Surtain II, in his fourth NFL season, has emerged as the premier cornerback in the league. His exceptional performance has placed him as a top contender for the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award, alongside Trey Hendrickson of the Bengals. Notably, Surtain shut down Ja’Marr Chase, the league’s leading receiver, holding him to just three catches for 27 yards in a recent matchup. His dominance is reflected in opponents targeting him on only 10.9% of his snaps. This marks Surtain’s second All-Pro 1st Team selection, with his first in 2022.
Marlon Humphrey
Marlon Humphrey excelled as the slot cornerback on the All-Pro 1st Team, achieving a career-high six interceptions this season, tying for third in the NFL. He also recorded his first career pick-six. This selection is Humphrey’s second time on the All-Pro 1st Team, with his first in 2019, showcasing his consistent high-level performance.
Xavier McKinney
In his debut season with the Green Bay Packers, Xavier McKinney was a standout, finishing second in the NFL with eight interceptions. His impactful play earned him his first All-Pro 1st Team selection, marking a significant milestone in his budding career.
Derrick Henry
On the All-Pro 2nd Team, Derrick Henry represented Alabama alumni, finishing behind Saquon Barkley for the league’s rushing title. Henry surpassed 1,900 rushing yards for the second time, making history as the first NFL player to achieve this feat twice. In his first season with the Baltimore Ravens, Henry’s powerful running added a new dimension to their offense, relieving pressure on Lamar Jackson and making the team a formidable contender in the postseason. This is Henry’s third All-Pro 2nd Team selection.
These former Alabama players continue to showcase their elite talent in the NFL, with their contributions reinforcing the program’s reputation as a breeding ground for professional success.
