The NFL’s announcement of the AP Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year finalists has turned into a massive celebration for Alabama fans, as two former Crimson Tide stars earned spots on the prestigious lists! Derrick Henry (2013–2015) and Pat Surtain II (2018–2020) continue to make Alabama proud, proving once again that the Tide’s influence in the NFL is undeniable.
Derrick Henry, now in his first season with the Baltimore Ravens after a legendary eight-year run with the Tennessee Titans, put up jaw-dropping numbers this season. He powered through defenses for 1,921 rushing yards—second-most in the league—and led the NFL with 16 rushing touchdowns. The King is back in the hunt for Offensive Player of the Year, a title he previously claimed in 2020. Henry stands tall alongside fellow finalists like Philadelphia’s Saquon Barkley, Cincinnati’s superstar duo of Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, and Baltimore’s electric quarterback Lamar Jackson. But let’s be honest—no one dominates like Alabama’s very own Derrick Henry!
On the defensive side, Pat Surtain II continues to carve out his legacy as one of the NFL’s best. In just his fourth season with the Denver Broncos, Surtain made history this week as the first former Alabama player to earn the PFWA Defensive Player of the Year award. This season, he racked up 45 tackles, forced a fumble, recovered another, and snagged four interceptions—including a jaw-dropping pick-six that left fans speechless. Surtain is now eyeing the AP Defensive Player of the Year award, competing against stars like Philadelphia’s Zach Baun, Cleveland’s Myles Garrett, Cincinnati’s Trey Hendrickson, and Pittsburgh’s T.J. Watt.
For Alabama fans, this moment is more than an accolade—it’s a testament to the Tide’s unparalleled tradition of excellence. Derrick Henry and Pat Surtain II are living proof that Alabama doesn’t just prepare players for the NFL—it prepares them to dominate it. Roll Tide!
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