Tyler Booker, the standout offensive guard from Alabama, is poised to be one of the top interior offensive linemen in the 2025 NFL Draft. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 325 pounds, Booker possesses an imposing frame that has helped him dominate the line of scrimmage at the collegiate level.
2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Tyler Booker, Alabama
College Career
Booker’s journey at Alabama has been one of steady progression and impressive accolades. After a rotational freshman season in 2022, he stepped into a full-time starting role at left guard in 2023, earning second-team All-SEC honors. His junior year in 2024 saw him elevate his game even further, shedding weight and improving his overall performance. Booker didn’t allow a single sack on 395 pass-blocking reps, earning All-American recognition and solidifying his status as a top draft prospect.
Strengths
Pass Protection: Booker’s most notable strength is his exceptional pass protection skills. His ability to neutralize interior rushers and maintain a clean pocket is elite for a college guard. His technical proficiency and understanding of leverage allow him to consistently win one-on-one matchups.
Power and Anchor: With his massive frame and natural strength, Booker excels at anchoring against power rushers. He possesses a low center of gravity and powerful lower half that make him extremely difficult to move at the point of attack.
Versatility: While primarily playing guard, Booker has shown the ability to slide out to tackle when needed, demonstrating his versatility and football IQ.
Finishing Mentality: Booker plays with a nasty streak, consistently looking to finish blocks and dominate opponents. His 87 knockdown blocks in his final season at Alabama highlight this aggressive approach.
Weaknesses
Run Blocking: While not a glaring weakness, Booker’s run blocking lags slightly behind his pass protection skills. He has the power to move defenders but needs to refine his technique and consistency in this area.
Lateral Agility: Booker’s foot quickness and ability to redirect against counter moves can be improved. This can sometimes lead to soft edges against more agile interior defenders.
Weight Management: Booker’s weight has fluctuated during his college career. While he benefited from shedding weight before his junior season, maintaining an optimal playing weight will be crucial for his NFL success.
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NFL Projection
Booker projects as a potential first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, with most analysts seeing him as a Day 1 or early Day 2 selection. His combination of size, strength, and advanced pass protection skills make him an attractive prospect for teams looking to solidify their interior offensive line.
CBS Sports currently ranks Booker as the top player at his position group and projects him to be selected by the Los Angeles Chargers with the 22nd overall pick. This aligns with the general consensus that Booker is likely to hear his name called in the latter half of the first round.
Booker’s best fit at the NFL level will be in an offense that can maximize his pass protection skills while continuing to develop his run blocking. His quick adaptation to scheme changes at Alabama suggests he has the versatility to succeed in various offensive systems.
Comparison and Outlook
NFL Draft analyst Brandon Thorn compares Booker to O’Cyrus Torrence, suggesting a player who can make an immediate impact as a starter with Pro Bowl potential. Booker’s combination of size, power, and technical skill in pass protection gives him a high floor as an NFL prospect.
While he may need some refinement in his run blocking and lateral agility, Booker’s track record of improvement at Alabama indicates he has the work ethic and coachability to address these areas. His experience against top-tier SEC competition has prepared him well for the challenges of the NFL.
Conclusion
Tyler Booker enters the 2025 NFL Draft as one of the most promising interior offensive line prospects. His dominant pass protection skills, impressive physical tools, and steady improvement throughout his college career make him a coveted asset for NFL teams. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in run blocking and lateral agility, Booker’s potential to be a cornerstone of an NFL offensive line for years to come is undeniable. As the draft approaches, expect Booker’s name to be prominently featured in first-round discussions, with the potential to make an immediate impact for whichever team selects him.
