Terrion Arnold addresses timeline for NFL Draft decision

Alabama defensive back Terrion Arnold will have a 2024 NFL Draft decision to make here in the coming weeks, with the talented defender likely to draw plenty of NFL interest should he make the jump to the next level.

But has Arnold given much consideration to the draft following a loss in the College Football Playoff semifinal?

“Honestly as a kid you grow up wanting moments like the one and the opportunity that I have been able to be blessed with,” Arnold said on the 3 Man Front podcast. “But honestly I kind of really haven’t been paying much attention to it.”

Arnold’s play is certainly deserving of NFL mention.

One year after being named a freshman All-American by the FWAA, Arnold returned to his role as a full-time starter in 2023. He made it count, too.

Arnold logged career highs in virtually every statistical category, tallying 63 tackles, 6.5 tackles for a loss, 1.0 sacks, a forced fumble, five interceptions and 17 passes defended. He was as productive as just about any defensive back in the country.

But for now Arnold is simply in the information-gathering phase of his NFL Draft decision.

“Coach (Nick) Saban, he’s getting a lot of information for me,” Arnold said. “It’s crazy, I’m actually doing a meeting with him in 30 minutes. So just as far as that I’m just trying to get all the information to make the best decision for me.”

More on the 2024 NFL Draft

The 2024 NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Michigan, with the first round on Thursday, April 25, the second and third rounds on Friday, April 26, and the fourth through seventh rounds on Saturday, April 27.

Players will have the opportunity to solidify their draft stock at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, to be held in Indianapolis, Indiana from February 26 through March 4.

The three-day event will be broadcasted throughout the weekend on ESPN and NFL Network.

To be eligible for the NFL Draft, players must be at least three years removed from their final year of high school while having used up their collegiate eligibility. Underclassmen are able to request league approval to become eligible for the draft, as are players who have graduated prior to using up all of their collegiate eligibility.

Last season, 69 players were granted special eligibility for the 2023 NFL Draft. 13 underclassmen who had completed their college degrees were also deemed eligible to be selected.

The deadline to declare for the 2024 NFL Draft is on January 15. NFL teams will receive a full list of eligible players in the class on January 19.