Alabama Football Recruiting Big Board: Receivers

The 2019 recruiting class is now on the clock.

The Recruiting Big Board is a look at how Alabama stacks up both now and in the future at every position. Inside we will take a look at the Crimson Tide’s current needs and possible players it might add to replace them.

Today’s breakdown: Receivers/ Tight ends

RETURNING (WR 7, TE 5)

Receivers

Derek Kief, R-Sr.

Xavian Marks, Sr.

Jerry Jeudy, So.

Henry Ruggs III, So.

DeVonta Smith, So.

Tyrell Shavers, R-Fr.

Chadarius Townsend, R-Fr.

Tight ends

Hale Hentges, Sr.

Irv Smith Jr., Jr.

Miller Forristall, Jr.

Kedrick James, So.

Major Tennison, So.

NEW ADDITIONS (WR 3, TE 1)

Receivers

Jaylen Waddle

Xavier Williams

Slade Bolden

Tight ends

Michael Parker

OVERVIEW

Last season, Calvin Ridley accounted for 967 yards and five touchdowns on 63 receptions. That’s almost four times as many receptions as the Crimson Tide’s next leading pass catcher, running back Bo Scarbrough, who had 17. With Ridley departing for the NFL, Alabama will need to spread the ball around better on offense in order to be successful this season.

Alabama might have a young receiving corps, but it doesn’t lack experience. Freshmen Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs III and DeVonta Smith all featured in the offense last season, with the latter catching the game winning touchdown in the national championship game. The trio combined for 649 yards and 11 touchdowns on 33 receptions last season and should step up as starters this season.

Alabama will have several other explosive receivers including five-star freshman Jaylen Waddle and 6-foot-6 Tyrell Shavers who redshirted last season. Derek Kief and Xavian Marks will add veteran experience to the unit.

At tight end, the Crimson Tide returns everyone from last season including Miller Forristall who suffered a season-ending knee injury against Colorado Sate. Alabama hasn’t utilized the tight end position much in recent years, but that could change this season.

RECRUITING BOARD AT RECEIVER