Alabama 2018 spring practice position preview — Receivers & tight ends
Alabama loses its three starting receivers but shouldn’t see a drop in production on the field. Calvin Ridley will be tough to replace after leading the Crimson Tide with 63 receptions for 937 yards to go with five touchdowns last season. However, Alabama’s passing offense should be more diverse as Jerry Jeudy, DeVonta Smith and Henry Ruggs step into bigger roles during their sophomore seasons.
Alabama brings back both of its starting tight ends from last season in Hale Hentges and Irv Smith and will see the return of Miller Forristall, who played in just three games after suffering a season-ending ACL injury. If the trio can stay healthy, it will lead what could be the Crimson Tide’s deepest tight end unit in years.
Alabama will also look for other players to take the next step this coming season. Derek Kief will have a chance to take on more of a role at receiver heading into his senior year, while redshirt freshman Tyrell Shavers could be a red-zone threat at 6-foot-6.
Below is a breakdown of how the race will play out and who will come out on top:
Returning starters
Hale Hentges, Sr., 6-5, 249 pounds: Hentges isn’t the flashiest member of Alabama’s offense, but his experience could play a major role this season. Serving as a proficient blocker from the tight end position, Hentges started in 13 games, tallying seven catches for 75 yards and three touchdowns.
Due to his ability to help out in the run game, the senior should see the field more than any of Alabama’s other tight ends. However, Hentges proved at times that he can be more than just a blocker. If the Crimson Tide is able to spread the ball around more on offense, don’t be surprised if he emerges in the receiving game as well.
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