Despite losing two of his top three receivers and his top tight end from last year, Alabama quarterback Jalen Hurts will have plenty of weapons at his disposal next season.
The Crimson Tide’s receiving corps was dealt somewhat of a surprise blow when leading receiver ArDarius Stewart announced he was declaring early for the NFL Draft. Starting tight end O.J. Howard, who is projected as a first-round pick, will also be tough to replace, as will the veteran presence and downfield blocking of graduate transfer receiver Gehrig Dieter. Fortunately for the Tide, there are several talented players waiting in the wings to fill those open spots.
With Hurts now having a full season under his belt, the expectation is that Alabama will open up its playbook and look get the ball downfield to some of those playmakers this season. That’s good news for some of the Tide’s deep threats at receiver, especially Calvin Ridley, who led Alabama his freshman season while taking advantage of former quarterback Jake Coker's big arm. Howard’s absence should also open up some opportunities for Hale Hentges and Miller Forristall, who both showed flashes of excellence last season.
* Take a look at our projected depth chart for the 2017 season
* Alabama spring practice position preview - Quarterbacks
* Alabama spring practice position preview - Running backs
Below is a breakdown of how both the wide receiver and tight end races will play out and who will come out on top:
