Kadyn Proctor, once hailed as the No. 1 offensive tackle prospect coming out of high school in Des Moines, Iowa, is facing scrutiny. After a stellar freshman year at Alabama, where he started all 14 games, expectations were sky-high for his true junior season. Many projected him as a top 10 NFL Draft pick, but his early season performance has raised concerns.
Early Season Struggles
Through three games, Proctor has allowed nine pressures, including six against Florida State. This puts him on pace to allow 36 pressures this season, a significant increase from the 15 he allowed last year. These struggles have led some to question his draft stock and whether he can live up to the hype.
One potential issue is his size. At 6-foot-7 and roughly 360 pounds, he's a massive presence. However, the average size of recent All-Pro offensive tackles is closer to 6-foot-5 and 311 pounds. Proctor and fellow lineman Kam Dewberry have been working to improve their conditioning and stamina, including nightly exercise bike sessions in a sauna. Proctor has reportedly shed 20 pounds since fall camp, aiming to improve his agility and quickness.
Finding the Right Formula
Proctor emphasizes the importance of the Alabama offensive line finding the right combination of players. He has praised Dewberry's "attacking" mindset, both on and off the field. Dewberry's work ethic and tenacity have made him a valuable asset to the team, despite allowing one sack and three pressures across 160 snaps.
Looking Ahead
As Alabama heads into SEC play, Proctor's performance will be crucial to the team's success. His ability to improve his technique, conditioning, and consistency will determine whether he can regain his status as a top NFL Draft prospect. The Crimson Tide coaching staff is working closely with him to address his weaknesses and maximize his potential.
- Focus on technique and footwork.
- Improve conditioning and stamina.
- Maintain a positive and focused mindset.
The upcoming games will be a test for Proctor, as he faces some of the toughest defensive lines in the country. Whether he can rise to the challenge remains to be seen, but his dedication and work ethic suggest that he is determined to turn his season around.