Three former Alabama defensive backs have earned prestigious first-team All-Pro honors for the 2024 NFL season, showcasing the continued excellence of Alabama’s football program in producing top-tier defensive talent. The three players—cornerback Patrick Surtain II, safety Xavier McKinney, and slot corner Marlon Humphrey—were all selected to the first-team secondary by the Associated Press in recognition of their outstanding performances during the regular season. This honor not only highlights their individual achievements but also serves as a testament to Alabama’s consistent ability to develop elite defensive players who make an impact at the highest level of professional football.
Patrick Surtain II, a product of Alabama’s storied football program, has quickly established himself as one of the NFL’s top cornerbacks since being drafted by the Denver Broncos in 2021. Over the course of the 2024 season, Surtain continued to showcase his exceptional skills in pass coverage, with his ability to shut down top wide receivers and make crucial plays in key moments. His combination of size, speed, and intelligence has made him a formidable force in Denver’s secondary, earning him his first-team All-Pro selection. Surtain’s ability to shadow and contain top-tier wide receivers has made him a cornerstone of the Broncos’ defense, solidifying his place among the NFL’s elite.
Xavier McKinney, another former Alabama star, had a standout season with the Green Bay Packers. As a safety, McKinney’s versatility, playmaking ability, and leadership were evident throughout the year. He was a key figure in the Packers’ defensive schemes, both in pass coverage and run support. His ability to read the quarterback and make game-changing plays in critical situations helped propel McKinney to All-Pro honors. With a keen sense for ball placement and an ability to impact the game both in the air and on the ground, McKinney’s selection to the first-team All-Pro squad was a well-deserved recognition of his hard work and talent.
Marlon Humphrey, a veteran of the Baltimore Ravens, has long been one of the NFL’s premier cornerbacks. As a slot corner, Humphrey’s ability to cover a variety of receivers—from traditional wideouts to the more physically demanding tight ends—has made him a crucial asset for the Ravens’ defense. His strength, agility, and physicality allow him to match up well with any receiver, while his ball skills and knack for creating turnovers have made him a difference-maker in many games. Humphrey’s consistent play this season earned him a spot on the first-team All-Pro roster, underscoring his importance to Baltimore’s defense and his continued excellence in the league.
The selection of Surtain, McKinney, and Humphrey to the first-team All-Pro squad is not just a personal achievement for each player, but a testament to the enduring legacy of Alabama football. The program has consistently produced elite defensive backs, and this year’s All-Pro selections continue that tradition. The success of these three players demonstrates the effectiveness of Alabama’s coaching staff in developing future NFL stars, particularly in the defensive secondary, where the program has become a recognized pipeline of talent.
In conclusion, the recognition of Patrick Surtain II, Xavier McKinney, and Marlon Humphrey as first-team All-Pros for the 2024 season is a significant achievement for each player and for Alabama football. Their success serves as a reminder of the impact that Alabama’s football program continues to have on the NFL, particularly in developing elite defensive backs who excel at the highest level of competition.
