Alabama edge rusher Chris Braswell announces NFL draft decision
Alabama senior linebacker Chris Braswell has officially declared for the 2024 NFL Draft.
“I want to begin by expressing my gratitude to ALLAH for guiding me to where I stand today. Alhamdulillah,” Braswell said in a statement.
“My heartfelt appreciation goes out to my friends, teammates, coaches and family whose unwavering support has been my anchor through the highs and lows of this incredible journey.
“I also want to extend my sincere thanks to Coach Saban for entrusting me with the opportunity to play at The University of Alabama. Under your guidance, I’ve not only evolved as a player, but I’ve also become a better individual.
“To our passionate fans who’ve made the last four years at this University unforgettable, your energy at Bryant-Denny Stadium every Saturday has been an inspiration. Your support has been the heartbeat of our success.
“Throughout my tenure at UA, I’ve achieved my primary goals of winning a national championship and, above all, earning my degree. Along the way, I’ve forged lifelong bonds and crafted indelible memories. However, it’s not time for me to embark on a new chapter. I’m excited to announce my decision to declare for the 2024 NFL Draft.”
Braswell saw his role increase every year in the Crimson Tide program. After not seeing the field as a freshman in 2020, he played in 13 games each of the next two seasons. In 2022, he was Alabama’s third outside linebacker behind Will Anderson and Dallas Turner – one top-five draft pick and a projected first-rounder – before becoming a starter in 2023.
Braswell played in every game of this past season and was on the field for the first snap twice, although he was the Tide’s starting Jack linebacker. He finished the 2023 campaign with career-highs in tackles (42), tackles for loss (10.5), sacks (8.0), forced fumbles (3) and interceptions (1). Braswell ranked fifth in the SEC in sacks in his final season.
A native of Baltimore, Md., Braswell arrived at Alabama as a 5-star recruit in the 2020 class, per the On3 Industry Rankings. He was considered the nation’s No. 2 linebacker and second-best player in the state of Maryland as well as the 15th-best prospect in his class. Braswell shined at St. Frances Academy before choosing UA over Clemson, Georgia and LSU.
The deadline for underclassmen to declare for the 2024 NFL Draft is Monday, Jan. 15. Braswell, technically a redshirt junior, joins Turner and JC Latham in announcing plans to turn pro. Seniors Justin Eboigbe and Will Reichard are also set to play in the Senior Bowl.
The 2024 NFL Draft is set for Thursday, April 25, through Saturday, April 27, in Detroit.
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