Alabama's Devan Thompkins Receives Bold 2027 NFL Draft Prediction

The Alabama Crimson Tide are having a solid season, as they hold a 7-2 record and are in a great position to make it into the College Football Playoff.

Alabama has developed a ton of talent over the years, and their roster features some great players once again, who could be selected early in the 2027 NFL Draft. Devan Thompkins has been one of the top players for the Crimson Tide this season and has been a strong presence on their defensive line.

In Sports Illustrated's recent mock draft, Thompkins is predicted to land with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with the eighth overall pick.

He transferred to Alabama for his senior season, recording 33 total tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, five sacks, and a forced fumble. It's been a breakout season for Thompkins, who was solid during his time with the USC Trojans but is having the best season of his career in 2026 with the Crimson Tide.

Thompkins will be a key piece on Alabama's defense as they look to make a run to the National Championship. He could be one of the top defensive players taken off the board due to his versatility to play off the edge or from the interior.

His size and power make him a better fit on the interior defensive line at the next level. A team like the Buccaneers would make sense for Thompkins, as they could use more pieces on their defensive line.

Alabama should be able to finish the season strong, as they have matchups against unranked opponents in Vanderbilt, Chattanooga, and Auburn. If they can win those games, it should solidify their place in the College Football Playoff and give them a chance to compete for a title.

The Crimson Tide hasn't won a National Championship since the 2020 season under head coach Nick Saban. 

Alabama has lost their toughest matchups in the 2026 season against the Georgia Bulldogs and Tennessee Volunteers, but they still have the chance to turn around the season with a deep playoff run.

The Crimson Tide will need players like Thompkins to play at a high level down the stretch, disrupting opposing teams in the backfield with pressure on the quarterback and limiting the run game.

Alabama's defense has been solid, allowing 20.3 points per game, but they haven't been near the top units in the nation. To win a title, they will need everyone to step up and execute before another season goes by with the Crimson Tide not making a deep run.