The Alabama Crimson Tide are only a few months into the off-season, and they are already confident in their development. There were several goals this off-season, but one of the biggest was finding a new set of wide receivers. Jameson Williams and John Metchie were receivers that helped create one of the most explosive offenses in the nation. They combined for 175 receptions for 2,714 yards and 23 touchdowns for Heisman Trophy winner Bryce Young. Their absence was noticeable through most of the 2021 College Football Playoff National Championship as they lost to the Georgia Bulldogs 33-18.
The Tide are looking for receivers that be leaders on-and-off the field for the offense. They have already thinned out the herd of players like Agiye Hall, who was unprepared for the responsibility and thus decided to transfer. Several players have the talent and the mentality to be the number one target for Young next season. The Tide needs a top receiver, but they also need a full slate of starters. This spring has been a big opportunity for players to step. Here are the three wide receivers that are stepping up this off-season for Alabama.
Wide Receivers Who Are Stepping Up For Alabama
Jermaine Burton
Last season, the Tide had some big transfers, but none was more crucial than Jameson Williams coming from Ohio State. They could have another key transfer that can immediately impact in former Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver Jermaine Burton. Burton caught 53 receptions for 901 yards and eight touchdowns in his first two years with Georgia. Burton is a dynamic receiver who can run several different routes or play as a jet sweep ball carrier. His ability to run versatile routes, contend for the catch, and be a deep threat receiver makes an impact contributor for Alabama at wide receiver. In Alabama’s past scrimmage this past Saturday, Burton scored two touchdowns, one coming from Young.
Traeshon Holden
Holden was a wide receiver who showed tremendous patience as he waited for his opportunity for Alabama. Last season, Holden caught 21 receptions for 239 yards and a touchdown. He is expected to have a much bigger year this season for Alabama as he works his way up the depth chart. This spring training, Holden has been one of the most consistent receivers as several spots opened through the off-season. Holden is an electrifying playmaker who can contend for the catch, create more yards after contact, lineup at different positions, and make unbelievable catches. Out of all the receivers this off-season for the Tide, Holden has been one of the most consistent. He is a highlight creator who could show it more in the upcoming 2022 season.
JoJo Earle
With Alabama experiencing a surprising departure this off-season in Slade Bolden, they’re not looking far for his replacement at the slot. Former All-SEC Freshman Team receiver JoJo Earle is a prime candidate to take over as the start slot receiver. This past season, Earle caught 12 receptions for 148 yards. He also returned 16 punts for 88 yards as one of the most elusive returners for the Tide. His speed, elite athleticism, and high motor make him a reliable candidate to be at the slot receiver to be the quick option for Young. Coach Saban has complementary of Earle’s ability in what he can do with reliability and explosiveness. He is an early candidate to be one of the main impact receivers this 2022 season based on this Spring.
