Alabama’s Tyler Booker is one of the top offensive line prospects in this year’s draft, and he’s leaning on the wisdom of his uncle, Ulish Booker, to prepare for the NFL. Ulish, a former Michigan State offensive lineman who had a stint with the Steelers, has been mentoring his nephew through the process.
“He was retired before I was born, but he’s helped me a lot—sharing his experiences, what to expect, and how to handle the ups and downs of football,” Booker said.
During Thanksgiving, Ulish even had his nephew watch old Michigan State highlights. Seeing the film, Booker realized his uncle was just as dominant then as he was at Alabama. But unlike Ulish, who went undrafted in 2003, Booker is projected to be an early pick.
At 6-foot-5 and 325 pounds, the two-time All-SEC lineman was a force for the Crimson Tide, earning first-team All-American honors last season. His size, skill, and physicality have put him on the Detroit Lions’ radar.
Detroit, in need of an interior offensive lineman, met with Booker last week at the NFL Scouting Combine.
“That meeting went well,” Booker said. “I really enjoyed it, and I am glad to put on for the Alabama guys.”
Booker takes pride in his pass protection and ability to read defensive schemes, crediting his weekly preparation. His 86.5 pass-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus ranks among the best in this year’s draft class.
Beyond his on-field talent, teams are intrigued by his leadership.
“They want to see how my leadership fits into their program,” Booker said. “My response was simple: I have to earn the right to lead.”
With his talent, mindset, and NFL-ready skill set, Booker could be a coveted target for the Lions in April’s draft.
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