Booker, who has been at Alabama since leaving IMG Academy in 2022, discussed his leadership role Thursday.

“I take it for granted how many young players we have on the team because the last two years I’ve been here there’s been a lot of older players,” Booker said. “Javion Cohen, Emil Ekiyor, Darrian Dalcourt. Last year I was with JC (Latham), Seth (McLaughlin), Dalcourt and a lot of the older guys in the room, but now the Old man, I must teach the young how to be old men. “Understanding that, I need to push it a bit with some of the younger players, but whatever it takes.”

Booker explained that the message he is emphasizing to young players revolves around the Crimson Tide fan base and “how many people trust them.”

“This is a community like no other,” Booker said. “That’s why it was a no-brainer for me to stay because I love it here. I love Alabama so much because so many people love us, the community and the atmosphere you encounter when you walk around the store — everyone supports you. Just think about them because you’re playing for them.”

Booker’s dominance on the field has given him the prospect of entering the 2025 NFL Draft, but that isn’t set in stone as the left guard hasn’t made that decision yet and doesn’t need to for a long time. However, he is aware that his time wearing the red and white is dwindling and has unequivocally unearthed a younger teammate who has learned from Booker’s leadership and could fulfill his vital role in the future.

“(Left) Kadyn (Proctor), of course,” Booker said. “It is difficult to see him as a young man because he has been starting since last year, but I see him (as his successor). He allows me to lead, but I see leadership qualities and qualities in him.”

“I always encourage him to lead because one day he will too. Man And I just want him to be prepared for it. He certainly has these qualities and qualities; “He knows what’s right, he knows what’s wrong, and I’m excited to see him continue to step into this role.”

Proctor, a former five-star recruit from Centerville, Iowa, has had quite the college journey. He committed to Iowa on June 30, 2022, but left the Hawkeyes after an unofficial visit to Alabama on December 16, 2022, and went to the Crimson Tide four days later.

Proctor started last season as a freshman at Alabama, but following legendary head coach Nick Saban’s retirement in January, the left tackle was one of the Tide’s many highlights entering the transfer portal. He went to Iowa once again 10 days after Saban retired, but DeBoer and his new team were able to change Proctor’s mind and bring him back to Alabama in April.

“I’m starting to think these are friendships that will last a long time.” Proctor said days before the start of the season. “I’ve really thought about it and I miss them. I really feel like this is my home away from home.”

“Five people out there, I really believe in us” Proctor said in August:. “And that’s the way it should be. If you want to be an elite offensive line, you have to believe in yourself. Frankly, everyone wants to say they’re the best offensive line group in the country, and that’s what I do. I’ll say I’m going with my guys.”

Since then, Proctor has shined in his second year with the Crimson Tide as he allowed very low pressures, and the sack by Missouri linebacker Johnny Walker Jr. against Alabama last week was the first Proctor gave up all season.

Looking at his performance on the field, his belief in the team and his recognition of promising leadership from his co-captain, it’s certainly understandable why Booker believes Proctor will take on this role in the future.