Jeff Saturday and Jordan Rodgers praise Kadyn Proctor, dub him 'The Travis Hunter of this year’s draft'

Alabama offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor has proven he’s far more than just an exceptional blocker during the Crimson Tide’s recent win streak. The junior standout has even gotten involved in the offense, picking up key first downs with the ball in his hands over the past couple of weeks.

That versatility caught the attention of ESPN analysts Jeff Saturday and Jordan Rodgers. On Wednesday’s edition of Get Up, the duo jokingly wondered how far Alabama might take Proctor’s involvement — with Saturday even unveiling a hilarious new nickname.

“We’ve renamed him the Travis Hunter of this year’s draft,” Saturday said. “He can do it all — play quarterback, catch passes, run wildcat, you name it. He is a man amongst boys. Not only is he an athlete, he’s an intelligent athlete — because he’s an offensive lineman. I love this kid. Put him at the top of the board.”

The comparison might be tongue-in-cheek, but the Tide tackle has become an unexpected offensive weapon. Rodgers is all in on the idea, even suggesting a red-zone role for the 6-foot-7, 366-pound lineman.

“He’s developed great,” Rodgers said. “Hasn’t allowed a sack since Week 1. But let’s get this guy in the red zone — split out wide, one-on-one with the corner, Darnell Washington style. Six-foot-seven, 366 pounds, with baby-soft hands. Throw him a jump ball — nobody’s guarding him.”

Proctor’s emergence as a fan favorite began when Alabama shocked everyone by dialing up a screen pass to the big man for an 11-yard gain in the red zone against Georgia. On the very next play, Ty Simpson ran it in from two yards out to give the Crimson Tide a 24-14 lead.

Even ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit couldn’t help but laugh on the broadcast as Proctor bulldozed Georgia defenders brave enough to get in his way. Then, in Alabama’s 30-14 win over Vanderbilt, the Crimson Tide went back to the well — handing Proctor the ball on third-and-one. He rumbled across the line for a crucial first down.

After the game, head coach Kalen DeBoer couldn’t help but grin when asked about the play: “Just give it to the big man and let him rumble,” DeBoer said. “He did a great job. It’s hard to bring down a guy that’s that size and that athletic.

“I’m happy he handled the football and secured it. It’s not something he does as much as the other guys, and it was a big moment in the game. Love the idea to put the call in, love the play call, and great execution.”

With Alabama looking like they’re returning to championship form, Proctor’s impact continues to grow. He’s not just as an anchor up front, but as one of the Crimson Tide’s most entertaining difference-makers. If the big man keeps producing, his legend in Tuscaloosa will only grow larger.