Alabama OLB Dallas Turner Feels He is the Best Defensive Player in the SEC

When asked by a reporter if he felt he was the best in the conference, Turner's answer was simple.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Confidence is key.

The Alabama Crimson Tide lost the spectacular Will Anderson Jr. to the NFL. There's no replacing Anderson, who's arguably the best defensive player ever to put on the Alabama uniform. He had a legendary three-year career in Tuscaloosa — 204 total tackles, 58.5 tackles for loss, 34.5 sacks and an interception for a touchdown.

He also finished fifth in Heisman voting in his record-breaking 2021-22 season.

But Anderson wasn't the only guy that made the Crimson Tide's pass rush great the last two years. The guy opposite him the past two seasons is special himself.

And now it's his time.

Dallas Turner exploded onto the scene as a freshman with 10 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks — helping lead Alabama to a national championship appearance. His statistical numbers dropped off in 2022-23, finishing the season with eight tackles for loss and just four sacks — and the Crimson Tide failed to reach the College Football Playoff.

Turner said he is feeling healthy and back to himself as his junior season approaches — and not just that. He feels he is the best defensive player in the SEC.

"I feel like [I am]," Turner said.

Why?

"My motor, my ability to pass rush, being versatile — and playing multiple positions."

Outside linebacker is one of the most important positions in football. It can become a game-changer — as Alabama fans saw with Anderson over the last three years. It's also becoming one of the most coveted positions in the NFL draft on a yearly basis.

If Turner can repeat his effort from two years ago — or better — he will be a sure-fire first round draft pick in April 2024.

See Also:

Nick Saban in No Rush to Name Starting QB

Everything Said by Nick Saban at the Podium at 2023 SEC Media Days

Is Georgia the New Alabama? How Kirby Smart and the Bulldogs are Battling Complacency