Alabama Football: Best player to wear each jersey number in Saban era

Alabama football jersey rankings 81-85

No. 81: Derek Kief

Derek Kief was another rotational wide receiver during his time with the Tide. Due to a group of studs at wide receiver after him that included Jeudy, Ruggs, and Smith, Kief never got to be a large part of the rotation at receiver. Despite this, he will try to make it on a roster by the time the NFL regular season starts this year.

No. 82: Irv Smith Jr.

We have officially hit the tight end portion of the article. Irv Smith Jr. was a great pass-catching tight end for the Tide in his junior year. He also blocked well for his size. With a quarterback like Tua, Smith got to further push his legacy for the Capstone.

No. 83: Kevin Norwood

Kevin Norwood is usually forgotten about as a top receiver, but he was incredibly strong on the jump-balls. He finished his career with 1,275 yards and 12 touchdowns, most of them coming in his senior season.

No. 84: Hale Hentges

Hale Hentges was never fit for the spread offense that Alabama ran with Tua. However, he was still a phenomenal blocker and occasional pass catcher. He’s also a great leader that was respected by his teammates. He has his handprint engraved at Denny Chimes for a reason.

No. 85: Preston Dial

Preston Dial is another tight end that ran more than anything. He caught the occasional pass in a play-action, but he was practically a sixth lineman for Alabama’s strong rushing attack. In his senior year, he caught for 264 yards and three touchdowns, both of which were highs for him. He wasn’t perfect, but he filled the role that Alabama needed out of his position at the time. He wouldn’t fit into the offense as well anymore.