Mel Kiper Jr. has unveiled a surprising twist in his latest 2025 NFL mock draft involving Alabama football. While fans might expect a familiar lineup of Crimson Tide stars leading the pack, Kiper’s predictions shake up that narrative.
The first Alabama player he projects to be taken is linebacker Jihaad Campbell, who he believes will go 17th overall to the Cincinnati Bengals. Kiper describes Campbell as a “complete football player,” highlighting his all-around skillset.
Notably, Campbell is the only Alabama representative in the first round, meaning if this prediction holds, it would mark the 17th year in a row with at least one first-rounder from Alabama—but also the first time since 2016 without multiple first-round picks.
Things take another unexpected turn in the second round. Kiper forecasts quarterback Jalen Milroe heading to the New York Giants at the 34th pick. He notes Milroe’s potential to thrive in New York’s system, especially with veteran quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston already in that QB room. Milroe is slotted as the fifth quarterback to come off the board, behind names like Cam Ward (No. 1, Titans), Shedeur Sanders (No. 9, Saints), Jaxson Dart (No. 26, Rams), and Tyler Shough (No. 33, Browns).
Another name from the Tide, offensive lineman Tyler Booker, lands later than some expected. Once viewed as a potential first-round selection, Booker isn’t picked until No. 47 by the Arizona Cardinals. Despite the slide, Kiper considers him a “strong value” pick who could make an immediate impact as a starter. Booker trails several other interior linemen in Kiper’s projection, including Grey Zabel (No. 22, Chargers), Donovan Jackson (No. 24, Vikings), and Jonah Savaiinaea (No. 45, Colts).
