Phidarian Mathis reveals what it means to be a part of DTU, the Alabama lineage

Phidarian Mathis is preparing to become the next great former Alabama defensive tackle to attempt to make his name at the next level. He carries the weight of those who came before him, and the expectations experts expect from a defensive tackle that played for the Crimson Tide.

Marcell Dareus, A’Shawn Robinson, Jonathan Allen and Christian Barmore are a couple of names who proceed Mathis. Now, the next in a long line of Alabama defensive tackles was asked what it means at the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine.

“It’s amazing, man,” started Mathis, regarding being mentioned in the same breath as Alabama greats. “I know I came along way. Just to be mentioned with those guys, I’ll be able to tell my daughter about that when she gets older, and my son and stuff like that. That’s a great honor.

“Because I know how much the Alabama standard means to those guys, and it means a lot to me.”

Evidently, Mathis is ready for the trials and tribulations that come with being an NFL star. Additionally, the former Alabama star was asked what makes him a desirable player to NFL franchises.

“I’m a great leader,” stated Mathis. “A great leader. I’m disciplined, I’m responsible. I know whatever NFL team is picking me, they’re getting a guy that’s all about business when it’s time for business.

“I’m a respectful young man, but I got a happy pride about me. I’m always happy.”

Phidarian Mathis will make one NFL team happy when they select him in the 2022 NFL Draft.

More on Phidarian Mathis, Alabama Crimson Tide

Moreover, Phidarian Mathis had a dominant season in 2021. Throughout, the defensive tackle established himself as one of the premier defensive players in all of college football. He racked up 53 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and nine sacks. Additionally, he had six quarterback hurries, two fumble recoveries, and one forced fumble.

Continuing, Mathis is remarkably light on his feet for a player his size, 6-foot-4, 312 pounds. Earlier in the season, Mel Kiper, Jr. ranked him as the third best interior defensive line prospect in the 2022 NFL Draft.

Unfortunately, Mathis injured his shoulder in the national championship game after a Georgia offensive lineman landed on him after a play. During the game, Mathis walked off the field, grabbing his right shoulder.

Throughout the season, the former Alabama star was one of the most underrated pieces on a very, very talented defense for the Crimson Tide.