Alabama football has some questions at receiver
Over the past five years, Alabama football has seen some of the best receivers in the history of college football. Calvin Ridley, Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs, Jaylen Waddle and DeVonta Smith were all drafted in the first round. Jameson Williams will likely be next on the list, and John Metchie won’t be far behind him if he slips out of Round 1.
It appears that the Tide’s next star at wide receiver is another transfer player. Jermaine Burton went from Georgia to Alabama, and he is seen as one of the best receivers in the SEC this season. If he lives up to the hype, he will be Alabama football’s WR1.
Alabama also returns Cameron Latu at tight end, and Jahmyr Gibbs will catch plenty of balls out of the backfield. Across the board, the Tide have plenty of targets. However, who will be the second receiver?
There are a few candidates with different sets of skills. The most likely scenario is that all of these players receive a similar number of targets. However, these are the options for WR2.
JoJo Earle
Earle is a speedy slot receiver. He will impact special teams for Alabama football, and he was seen as a starter last year before he had an injury. If he is fully healthy, he will have plenty of chemistry with Bryce Young. Earle is a lock to start in the slot, but we’ll have to see what his production looks like.
Ja’Corey Brooks
Brooks saw an increased role after Jameson Williams and John Metchie suffered injuries. He ended the year with only 15 catches, but he will be competing as an outside receiver this year.
Traeshon Holden
Holden flashed at the A-Day Game last year, and he leads all returning receivers in catches. He will certainly receive targets this year. The main question is if he can make enough big plays to be considered WR2. He is good with contested catches, but other options do more after the catch.
Christian Leary
The coaching staff made an effort to get Leary involved in the passing game last year. The numbers don’t show it, but he was seen as a speed threat who could make big plays when given the chance. He is likely last on the list right now, but he will be given a chance to contribute.
Aaron Anderson
This is my sleeper pick. I don’t think he will be a starter, but don’t be surprised if he tears it up in garbage time and is given a chance to contribute late in the season.
So, who is WR2?
Right now, Brooks is likely the starter, and Holden is right behind him. Earle will start in the slot, giving Alabama football a great group of targets.