Will Anderson Jr. continues to enhance Alabama Football’s legacy by becoming the program’s third player to clinch Defensive Rookie of the Year honors, joining the ranks of Head Coach DeMeco Ryans and Derrick Thomas as the sole recipients in program history.
Anderson’s recognition is a testament to his embodiment of Alabama Football’s ethos. It adds another accolade to his impressive rookie campaign, which also saw him earn Pro Bowl honors and a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team.
Despite grappling with injuries throughout the season, including an ankle injury that sidelined him for a period, Anderson showcased his prowess with seven regular-season sacks and 29 tackles. He further contributed with a postseason sack and four tackles. The Texans took a significant gamble by trading up to acquire Anderson, and thus far, it has proven fruitful, with Anderson emerging as a vital asset for their team.
Looking ahead to 2024, Anderson aims to elevate his game to a level where he consistently reaches double-digit sack figures, solidifying his status as one of the league’s premier edge rushers. With his immense talent complemented by an unmatched work ethic, as evidenced by his time at Alabama, Anderson is only scratching the surface of his potential.
As Alabama Football transitions post-Nick Saban, it will be intriguing to monitor the achievements of players he coached. Saban’s former protégés have already reached remarkable milestones, with one winning Offensive Player of the Year and numerous earning Pro Bowl nods. The prospect of a former Saban-coached player attaining MVP and Defensive Player of the Year honors adds excitement to the narrative. While the final tally of Saban-coached players’ accomplishments may be years away, the journey promises to be captivating.
