Projected starters
Andre Smith (6-4, 348, junior)
Mike Johnson (6-6, 298, junior)
Antoine Caldwell (6-3, 292, senior)
Marlon Davis (6-4, 290, senior)
Drew Davis (6-6, 300, junior)
Alabama’s offensive fortunes got a major boost when Caldwell opted to return for his senior year rather than enter the NFL draft. The team’s unquestioned offensive leader can play all five positions, and now has a chip on his shoulder after his embarrassing four-game suspension last year for textbook policy violations.
Smith can be as good as he wants to be, but has been inconsistent in his conditioning to this point in his career. If he ever gets in and stays in shape, he could go down as one of the all-time greats.
Johnson was an unsung hero last year, and like Caldwell possesses the ability to play multiple positions. The two Davises (who are not related) will face stiff competition for their starting jobs from a talented corp of youngsters.
In reserve
Evan Cardwell (6-2, 278, junior)
Taylor Pharr (6-6, 282, sophomore)
David Ross (6-4, 297, sophomore)
William Vlachos (6-1, 295, sophomore)
Patrick Crump (6-3, 267, redshirt freshman)
John Michael Boswell (6-5, 300, true freshman)
Barrett Jones (6-5, 280, true freshman)
Tyler Love (6-7, 290, true freshman)
Love is the future standout in this group, and could challenge for the starting right tackle job if he’s able to add bulk and strength over the summer. Vlachos will also be a starter before long at center, and could force Caldwell to move to guard.
Cardwell is admired by teammates for his hard work and has been productive when he’s played, but was undone by back problems last season. Pharr and Ross were highly touted recruits, but have yet to make their marks on the college level.
Crump is coming off a serious knee injury and won’t be counted on for much more than depth this year. Ditto Boswell and Jones, who aren’t likely to play this year barring a serious rash of injuries.
Bottom line
On paper at least, Alabama hasn’t had a line this good since 2002, a unit that eventually placed all five starters in the NFL. Smith and Caldwell are legitimate All-SEC (if not All-America) players, and there is enough talent around them to forge an outstanding unit.
Coming Saturday: Defensive line
