Alabama CB Eli Ricks makes NFL draft decision
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Alabama starting cornerback Eli Ricks has made his decision on whether he’ll join several teammates by entering the 2023 NFL Draft. On Tuesday, the junior announced that he’ll forgo his final season of collegiate eligibility to move on to the next level.
This is a big loss for Alabama.
The Crimson Tide have already lost four juniors early to the NFL draft. Those players, which all announced on Monday, include quarterback Bryce Young, running back Jahmyr Gibbs, linebacker Will Anderson Jr. and defensive back Brian Branch. Ricks is yet another blow to a roster that’s already losing a lot of NFL talent.
Not only that, but Alabama’s secondary is losing significant experience.
Ricks will be joined by veterans Jordan Battle,Branch and DeMarcco Hellams in the draft. Plus, fellow cornerback Khyree Jackson transferred to Oregon after entering the portal in early December. Ricks makes the fourth starter and fifth experienced defensive back to leave.
Top 10
- 1New
Urban Meyer
Coach alarmed by UT fan turnout at OSU
- 2
Bowl insurance
Historic policies for Hunter, Shedeur
- 3Hot
CFP home games
Steve Spurrier calls for change
- 4
Nick Saban endorsed
Lane Kiffin suggests as commish
- 5
Diego Pavia
Vandy QB ruling forces change
Get the On3 Top 10 to your inbox every morning
By clicking "Subscribe to Newsletter", I agree to On3's Privacy Notice, Terms, and use of my personal information described therein.
With Kool-Aid McKinstry also set to be return in 2023, Alabama could’ve had one of — if not — the top cornerback duos in the country. That was the expectation going into this season, but Ricks took time to learn the nuances of playing under Nick Saban. Once he was able to get on the field, he was fantastic.
Ricks only allowed five catches for 64 yards on 19 targets. The 6-foot-2, 190-pound defender also added five pass breakups despite playing significantly less snaps (384) than McKinstry (871) and Terrion Arnold (549). His best performance came against Mississippi State back in Week 8, which was also his first start of the season.
Unfortunately, his time in Tuscaloosa is coming to an end after a disappointing season.
Find out why we believe Eli Ricks should’ve returned by CLICKING HERE
Also find out why we believe the secondary can withstand the loss by CLICKING HERE
Not a member, Alabama fans? Join BamaInsider!
Have you subscribed to BamaInsider.com? You can sign up now for $29.99, which gets you premium access until Aug. 31, 2023! Or, you can also get monthly access for just $9.99 per month. Get access to premium articles covering the University of Alabama athletics, recruiting content and also join thousands of Crimson Tide fans on the Talk of Champions message board! CLICK HERE!
