Alabama OL Tyler Booker speaks to relationship with Washington transfer Parker Brailsford

Parker Brailsford has not been with Alabama for too long. He was one of the few players who followed Kalen DeBoer from Washington to Tuscaloosa, hoping to become the starting center. Brailsford has been out of practice but is already making a huge impact on his teammates.

Tyler Booker, one of the veteran players inside of the program, spoke about his relationship with Brailsford on Tuesday. Some off-field issues are what Brailsford is dealing with and despite not knowing each other too long, Booker is there for him no matter what.

Whether you are an Alabama player for five years or five days, Booker considers you a part of the “brotherhood.”

“I love that guy,” Booker said. “That’s my brother. Just being able to be there for him in a time like this is very crucial. I told him whatever he needs, I’m there for him. He’s a brother now. He’s part of this Alabama brotherhood. I’ll treat him as such.”

When returning, Brailsford will compete with James Brockermeyer for the starting center job. Whoever winds up winning will get to play right next to Booker. He was Alabama’s starting left guard during the 2023 season and is expected to keep the role moving forward.

But on Saturday, DeBoer confirmed there was something going on with Brailsford. Without giving up specifics, he praised the center for how he’s handled everything thus far.

“Parker’s just going through some non-football related things,” DeBoer said. “He’s gonna be with us. He’s working out with our strength staff and done a great job there. He’s never done anything wrong. It’s nothing like that. He’s working hard. He’s gonna be ready to go here sooner than later. Just taking it day by day.”

Brailsford was a key member to Washington winning the Joe Moore Award last season, anchoring the middle of the offensive line. He might be a bit undersized at 6-2, 265 pounds but played like one of the best centers in the country.

In the 15 games the Huskies played, Brailsford played in all 15 of them — 13 came at center while two at the beginning of the season were at right guard. He was named a member of the All-Pac-12 second team for his efforts.

Once back on the field, you already know the interior is going to click well. Booker and Brailsford already have that tight-knit bond away from the game.