Alabama Football: 3 biggest questions marks heading into 2020
By Dante Pryor
2. Can Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs III be adequately replaced?
It was good news when running back Najee Harris and offensive lineman Alex Leatherwood both announced they were both returning to Alabama for one more season. The Crimson Tide offense, however, was dynamic because of the receivers.
The Crimson Tide had four receivers with at least 30 receptions and five touchdowns last season. Harris was a solid compliment in the running game, but Alabama was a spread offense that threw the ball all over the field.
Gone are receivers Henry Ruggs III and Jerry Jeudy. DeVonta Smith, who led the team in receiving yards, and Jaylen Waddle return to lead the receiving corps. This was a group predicated on having multiple options and not just one go-to receiver.
Who fills the hole left by Ruggs and Jeudy? Smith led the team in receiving yards last season and he is ready to be the go-to for whoever plays quarterback. Waddle is sure to have more catches next season.
It will be interesting to see which of the young receivers step up and take those third and fourth receiver spots. The Crimson Tide have options. John Metchie and Slade Bolden are viable options to slide in. Also, Chadarius Townsend — recruited as an athlete — found a possible spot at receiver.
The good thing is they have no shortage of options to fill in those third and fourth slots. It will be an interesting competition to see who gets those two slots.