2021 NFL Draft: Alex Leatherwood shows out at Alabama Pro Day

The cancellation of the 2021 NFL Combine meant that schools wanting to give their top prospects a chance to make an impression on NFL scouts would have to organize their own individual Pro Day.

On Tuesday, it was Alabama’s premier talent that took center stage, though there were some notable no-shows on the field. Wide receivers DeVonta Smith and Jaylen Waddle, two projected first-round picks, as well as star running back Najee Harris, opted out of running any drills.

Despite the absence of some big names, there was still plenty to talk about after the day had wrapped up. Cornerback Patrick Surtain II impressed with his unofficial 4.42 40-yard dash and quarterback Mac Jones added to his draft stock with a strong display. For my money, though, it was offensive lineman Alex Leatherwood that left the biggest mark on those in attendance.

How Alex Leatherwood compares athletically

Simply put, the tackle’s drill numbers were remarkable. Measuring in at 6-foot-5, 312 pounds, Leatherwood ran a 4.96 40-yard dash, putting him in the 94th percentile at his position. He also boasted a 34.5-inch vertical jump measurement (98th percentile, for those that were wondering.)

His broad jump measurement was perhaps the craziest of them all: 9’10”, which puts him in the 99th percentile at his position. Simply put, Alex Leatherwood showed fantastic athleticism for a player of his size.

There are a few tackle prospects thought to be more equipped for an NFL starter role, but there’s no doubt that teams will start to think a little harder about drafting Leatherwood, large in part to his freakish athleticism.

NFL.com’s Chase Goodbread notes that the Outland Trophy winner’s performance “got positive feedback for much of his workout,” which should go a long way in strengthening his draft stock in time for the 2021 NFL Draft, held from April 29th-May 1st.