Alabama Football: Top 5 prospects for 2021 NFL Draft
WR. 4. 829. Junior. Jaylen Waddle. player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis
In the 2020 NFL Draft, the Crimson Tide had two wide receivers that were drafted in the first round. The Tide has another impressive duo set at wide receiver to accomplish this again for the 2021 NFL Draft.
While DeVonta Smith is a dangerous wideout on the outside, Waddle is one of the most versatile and dynamic wide receivers in college football.
Despite a loaded wide receiver corps since his freshman year, he has been able to way to the field early. In his freshman season in 2018, Waddle caught 45 receptions for 848 yards and seven touchdowns. He is also one of the most dangerous return specialists in the nation. He returned 16 punts for 233 yards and a touchdown in his freshman season.
This past season, Waddle caught 33 receptions for 560 yards and six touchdowns. He also returned 20 punts for 487 yards and one touchdown as well as five kickoff returns for 175 yards a touchdown. He is one of the most elusive and dynamic runners as a wide receiver.
Waddle averages 12.2 yards after the reception, which leads the nation last season. He gives a 158.3 passer rating when targeted. Athlon Sports ranks Waddle as the seventh overall prospect in the 2021 NFL Draft while USA Today ranked him as the No. 22 overall prospect.