The Cincinnati Bengals surprised onlookers by taking Alabama safety Jordan Battle in the third round of the draft, yet his experience in Nick Saban’s defense with the Crimson Tide played a big part in that selection.
Right from the jump, it was clear that Bengals coaches intended for Battle to have an early role in Lou Anarumo’s defense. After his success in the complex Alabama scheme, picking up Anarumo’s likewise complex scheme won’t be as tough as it normally is for rookies.
Just ask Battle himself.
“If you’re under coach (Nick) Saban, you know it’s a complex defense,” Battle said, according to Shelby Dermer of the Cincinnati Enquirer. “I gotta realize it’s a gift to be smart on the field and just take that all in. A guy who can learn quickly and take that to the field. Just doing that and trying to play as early as possible.”
The Bengals wanted the instant impact and leadership of a guy like Battle from a program like Alabama after losing Jessie Bates and Vonn Bell in free agency.
While the team used a first-rounder on Dax Hill last year and signed Nick Scott in free agency this offseason, there’s nothing guaranteed at the safety spot.
As of right now, Battle’s got a real shot at breaking into playing time early, especially if the theory about his easier pro transition than normal due to time with Saban comes true.
