Alabama Football: An early look at 2021 position battles

Key position battles for Alabama football

WR2

John Metchie is the only wide receiver who began 2020 as a starter that is returning. He and Slade Bolden will be starters, but will Bolden be the second option in the passing game? If not, who will get more targets?

Look for underclassmen like Javon Baker or Thaiu Jones-Bell to compete at first, but at least one freshman will get reps as well. Jacorey Brooks, Agiye Hall, JoJo Earle and Christian Leary will have a chance to shine.

The depth chart at RB

What can we expect from the deepest running back room in college football? Despite losing Najee Harris, Alabama brings back depth on depth. Brian Robinson will potentially start, but don’t discount Jase McClellan and Trey Sanders. Also, Keilan Robinson will likely return to the Crimson Tide next season. Adding in Roydell Williams and potentially Camar Wheaton makes this room insane.

This feels like too many mouths to feed. We might see one or two players transfer if targets aren’t there. That’s what makes this a battle to watch.

Starting QB

Without Mac Jones, we will usher in a new era for Alabama football in 2021. Honestly, this might not be much of a competition. Bryce Young is easily the frontrunner to win this job. Still, there will technically be a competition this summer. Paul Tyson and Jalen Milroe will compete on the depth chart, so we’ll see what they can do as well.

These position battles will determine how 2021 goes for the Crimson Tide. As always, expect the cream to rise to the top.