Alabama football: Electrifying playmaker Jaylen Waddle impressive
By Ronald Moody
The wide receiver position is a strength for Alabama football this upcoming season. Adding captivating Jaylen Waddle to the mix ensures the Crimson Tide has plenty of elite talent.
According to 247Sports, Jaylen Waddle was the No. 5 wide receiver in the nation and the No. 39 overall player in the 2018 class. Read up on Alabama football freshman, Jaylen Waddle and one word is used repeatedly. Waddle is described as an ‘electric’ playmaker blessed with speed, quickness and great hands.
Immediately following Saturday’s scrimmage, Alabama football head coach Nick Saban entertained a question about the wide receivers. The head coach quickly praised the play of the three sophomore receivers Henry Ruggs III, Jerry Jeudy and Devonta Smith.
Next, Saban provided insight on his freshmen receivers and their development this fall,
"We have a couple of freshmen I think could make a contribution to the team. I don’t want to put a lot of pressure on them by talking about them right now, but they’ve done really, really well. I think that will be helpful."
One of Alabama’s top wide receiver recruits, talented Jaylen Waddle is making quite an impression. The true freshman is consistently cited as a player to watch this fall.
Beginning from the time he walked on campus, Waddle has stunned coaches and fans.
The thrill has remained through the famed 4th quarter program, seven on sevens, Fan Day and even last Saturday’s scrimmage. The diminutive five foot ten receiver displays rare speed allowing him to play on the outside or in the slot. Jaylen is a threat to go the distance whenever he touches the ball whether it is on a screen pass, a reverse or a return.
Saban Commits Texas Highway Robbery
Hailed as one of Texas top ten high school players, Jaylen chose Alabama over Texas A&M. Finished his senior season as Touchdown Club of Houston Private School Offensive Player of the Year.
Alabama football head coach Nick Saban spoke about Waddle after signing day,
"“He’s got great quickness and change of direction and run after catch (ability). Really an outstanding overall receiver, but would work really well for us in the slot. Has really good run after catch speed, sweep-type of ability. Maybe a little different than some of the guys we have right now, which is a really good thing.”"
Special Teams Help Is On the Way
A dynamic playmaking returner has been missing since the departures of Cyrus Jones and Eddie Jackson. Both players made the Crimson Tide a triple threat on offense, defense, and special teams.
Cornerback Trevon Diggs and receiver Henry Ruggs III accounted for 69 percent of Alabama’s kick and punt return yardage. Ruggs averaged 18.4 yards per kickoff return. Diggs racked up 8.6 per punt return.
Displaying great instincts, vision, and Madden-like elusiveness, the shifty receiver brings game-breaking ability to special teams.
Expect Waddle to bring pure excitement to Bryant Denny and opposing stadiums this fall.
Next. Eight Alabama Football Players Who Must Step Up. dark
Looking for comparisons to Waddle from former Crimson Tide players? Think Javier Arenas returning punts and David Palmer running after a reception.