Alex Dickman talks future at Alabama

Alex Dickman, offensive tackle from Scottsdale-Chaparrel, Ariz., accepted a preferred walk-on opportunity from the University of Alabama. He talked about his future with the Crimson Tide.

"My sophomore year I started getting mail from Alabama," said Alex Dickman. "Last summer I went to their camp. I talked to coach Stoutland and Saban. I was real interested in them. I started talking to them a little bit more after that.

"I didn’t have any D-I offers. I was offered to walk-on at Ohio St. They started recruiting me when Coach Meyer took the job. As soon as Meyer got the job they offered me as a preferred walk-on. Alabama also offered me that opportunity.

“I told the Alabama coaches around New Year's Day I was going to accept the preferred-walk on. I then took a visit to Ohio State last month. It was a lot of fun. I just didn’t like the cold. My whole family lives in Ohio.

"I grew up loving Alabama. My trainer, Evan Mathis, played for Alabama. I look up to him. Alabama was just the team I felt most comfortable with. I love Tuscaloosa. I love the school. I just fell in love with it all.

Dickman has visited Alabama several times, but never for a game at Bryant-Denny Stadium. He was excited watching the Tide win the 2011 BCS National Championship.

"I love Alabama," he said. "I have been there five times. I absolutely love it. I can’t wait to go to school there. I applied as soon as I could. It’s very exciting it worked out. I didn’t get a scholarship, but I got the next best thing. I am excited about the opportunity.

"I have never been to a game there. It was awesome seeing them win it all. I was completely excited for the team and watching them play. I am excited about being around a lot of talent and making myself better as a player."

The 6-foot-5, 305-pound lineman expects to play tackle for the defending champions.

"They said right now offensive tackle," Hickman said of his position. “I envision myself more as an offensive guard. I will play wherever they want. I played left tackle in high school.

Dickman knows the strengths he will bring to Tuscaloosa and areas to improve in the off-season.

"My size and strength are my biggest strengths," he said. "I want to improve mainly on speed and explosiveness. There are always things you can improve."

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