Former Alabama DB Cyrus Jones had a lot on his plate at the NFL Combine over the weekend.

But that didn’t stop him from doing some reflection on comments made during his time with the Crimson Tide, as well as making some predictions about the next Alabama QB to the media in attendance in Indianapolis.

While there seems to be an early swell of support for talented youngster Blake Barnett to replace Jake Coker under center this fall, Jones took things a different direction when asked to make his choice.

According to Gridiron Now, Jones thinks Nick Saban will choose the experience of junior Cooper Bateman over Barnett (redshirt freshman), sophomore David Cornwell and true freshman Jalen Hurts.

“I’d probably say Cooper,” Jones said. “He’s a little bit older. I think that gives him a little edge.”

Bateman was Coker’s top competitor in last season’s battle for the Crimson Tide starting job. He even earned a start against Ole Miss, which turned out to be the only game Alabama lost all season on the way to a 14-1 record and a national championship.

Bateman was 11 of 14 for 87 yards and an interception against the Rebels. For the season, he was 37 of 52 for 291 yards.

Jones did have nice things to say about Barnett, though, according to the report.

“Blake’s a very talented guy,” Jones said. “The sky’s the limit for him. Only time will tell, and time is his friend. Just being able to learn each day under (offensive coordinator Lane) Kiffin and those guys on the offensive side. I think as long as he puts the work in, he’ll put himself in position to have a chance at the starting spot.”

The Crimson Tide starting QB battle is one of several intriguing openings to watch during spring practice. Florida, which played Alabama in the SEC Championship Game, is another program in search of a new QB. Division rivals Auburn and Arkansas are also expected to hold healthy competitions at the position this spring, while Mississippi State and Texas A&M will be replacing starting QBs as well.