I'm sorry. I love AJ and think the world of him and what he's done for Alabama. But he is not (currently) a first round draft pick. He is late second at the very best and probably mid third. There are too many better pro-style QB's in the 2013 draft with better measurables and better stats.
Nick Saban encourages juniors to evaluate their status after the regular season ends. He brings in consultants to help guys make the right decision, even telling them which teams are most likely to draft them and what round they'll be chosen. Depending on position, they are advised that if they have a reasonably good chance of being drafted in the first round by a good program, they should go pro. If they are projected to be second round picks or later, or if the consultants' evaluation of the likely NFL program is less than kind, they are encouraged to come back and improve their physical and mental preparation for the next level.
The "no more to prove" or "establishing a legacy" issues have almost no impact on that advice. At this point in their career, it's a business decision and nothing more.
Nick Saban encourages juniors to evaluate their status after the regular season ends. He brings in consultants to help guys make the right decision, even telling them which teams are most likely to draft them and what round they'll be chosen. Depending on position, they are advised that if they have a reasonably good chance of being drafted in the first round by a good program, they should go pro. If they are projected to be second round picks or later, or if the consultants' evaluation of the likely NFL program is less than kind, they are encouraged to come back and improve their physical and mental preparation for the next level.
The "no more to prove" or "establishing a legacy" issues have almost no impact on that advice. At this point in their career, it's a business decision and nothing more.
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