These Alabama football recruits have a chance to contribute early
Alabama football just signed the highest-rated recruiting class in the history of college football. While most of the class was solidified in 2020, Nick Saban put the finishing touches on 2021 Alabama recruiting with National Signing Day.
Most of the targets will provide depth and future stardom. As always, it will be hard to move up the depth chart without a few years in the system. However, there is a history of freshman contribution. Jalen Hurts started as a true freshman, and many stars in the 2017 recruiting class contributed in the National Championship Game against Georgia. Last season, studs like Malachi Moore and Will Anderson started on defense. With a mass exodus of talent, it is logical to assume that at least some players will have a chance to contribute early. Which names should Alabama football fans keep an eye on during the offseason as potential early stars?
JC Latham, OT
Latham is the highest-rated offensive tackle in the 2021 recruiting class, and he was a major signing for the Tide. He is part of the reason why this will be the greatest offensive line recruiting class ever. With three starters heading to the NFL, there will be a chance for Latham to start early.
Alabama has depth on the offensive line, but there is a history of freshmen starting at guard before moving to tackle. Latham could even compete for the right tackle job once Evan Neal shifts to left tackle.
Tommy Brockermeyer, OT
Everything said about Latham also goes for Brockermeyer. In two years, these stars will be the bookends of the best offensive line in college football. Until then, they will compete to start anywhere on the line. Don’t be surprised if either player wins a starting job.
Khyree Jackson, CB
While other corners might be rated above Jackson, it is important to realize that he is a JUCO transfer. Saban prefers experienced transfers to contribute early due to their limited eligibility and experience at the college level. With Patrick Surtain leaving, there is one vacancy in the secondary. It could be filled by GQ McKinstry or a returning corner, but don’t be surprised if Jackson starts by the end of the year.
Damon Payne, DT
This has nothing to do with need. Alabama football is returning almost every member of the defensive line. However, Payne has what it takes to contribute early. Alabama loves to rotate players on the defensive line, and Payne will at least add depth.
Even if Payne doesn’t start, he has what it takes to be a wrecking ball in key moments as a true freshman.
JoJo Earle, WR
To be clear, any of the top receivers of this class could contribute early. In fact, we might see multiple players start by the end of the year. Without Jaylen Waddle and DeVonta Smith, there are certainly gaps that must be filled by someone. Last year’s freshmen did not see much playing time, so the experience factor does not mean much right now.
While Agiye Hall and Jacorey Brooks are rated higher than Earle, the speed factor matters. Alabama needs someone to take the top off of the defense, and that could easily be Earle. His speed will separate him from the competition, and that is why I’m predicting that he will be an early contributor.
Earle also has what it takes to make a difference on special teams, so don’t be surprised if he returns kicks or punts for Alabama football.