Everything Alabama OL Kendall Randolph said on Tuesday

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — On Tuesday afternoon, Alabama offensive lineman Kendall Randolph spoke to the media for the first time since arriving in Tuscaloosa in 2017. During his five seasons with the Crimson Tide, the super senior has seen time at tight end, offensive tackle and offensive guard.

As the season opener approaches against Utah State, Randolph is currently playing with the first-team at left guard. That may or may not stick, but either way, the former Madison (Ala.) Bob Jones standout is considered the most seasoned veteran on the roster.

Below, you can check out everything Randolph said during his media availability.

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On his decision to return to Alabama for a sixth season…

“I feel like last year we could have won the national championship, so that’s something that we’re going to try to do this year, and those are our goals.” 

On how he’s able to play everywhere…

“Ultimately, I just want to be able to help the team in any way possible. If that’s at tight end, if that at guard or tackle, I just want to be in a position and be ready at any moment to get the job done.”

On if he feels more at home playing offensive guard…

“I wouldn’t say that it’s a comfort or anything. Ultimately, I’ve trained at guard and tackle. I’ve trained at tight end. So just being able to play Alabama football is the biggest goal.” 

On what makes a good offensive line…

“To be a successful offensive line you have to all be engaged, and everybody has to be on the same page in terms of communication. Everybody just has to move in the same direction. … Everybody has to be comfortable.”

On if he’s changed his number in the middle of an Alabama game…

“Yeah, so I’ve started off a game in 85, and by halftime, I was number 60.”

On the difficulties of switching jerseys mid-game…

“It takes a couple people to help me out. It’s a process, and I’m just happy to be out there.”

On how he would assess Alabama’s offensive line…

“I feel like we’re all moving in the same direction. We’re all working every day to just get better, and we’re just going to keep striving to do that so that we’re ready to play our best football by the first game.”

On how much of an emphasis there was put on improving the run game…

“Our emphasis was just overall [for] everybody to get stronger so we’re able to be physical and play fast throughout the season.”

On what new Alabama offensive line coach Eric Wolford has emphasized…

“Coach Wolford, he’s definitely an energy guy. He brings the energy every day. He emphasizes that we need to play fast and physical. So, definitely appreciate having him.”

On being the last member of Alabama’s 2017 recruiting class…

“Our 2017 class definitely was memorable. Being a part of that class, I’m definitely happy to be a part of that class. You know, I still stay in contact with some of those guys, and I’m glad they’re still able to do it at the next level. It’s been outstanding.”

On Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs…

“Jahmyr Gibbs, he’s definitely electric. He plays fast. He’s got some quick feet, he can make good cuts and stuff. Being able to block for him is a huge honor, first and foremost, because he’s a great athlete. We’re going to keep doing what we do to help him so he can be successful.”

On if he expected to be here six years ago and getting old man, grandpa jokes…

“Yeah, so the grandpa jokes, that’s pretty funny because I do hear that sometimes. I’m not offended by it because at the end of the day, we’re all here grinding for the same reason, and we all want to keep pushing to make it to the highest level as possible.

“Six years ago, I can say that I just saw myself being in a position to keep on striving towards my dreams. So, I continue to push for that.”

On Alabama offensive tackle Tyler Steen…

“He’s a great athlete. He has some quick feet. Overall, he’s a great player, person and we definitely enjoy having him on the team.”

On the best grandpa joke he’s heard…

“I think one time we talked about what year we were born, and I was hearing guys saying they were born in like 2003, 2002. They asked, ‘Kendall, when were you born?’ and I said 1998. They made some comments about that, but it didn’t go too far.”