Cam Sims next man up at receiver

The meeting room for the University of Alabama receivers holds a diverse bunch. There’s ArDarius Stewart, an imposing leader and intimidating presence on the field. Calvin Ridley handles himself like a professional even as a sophomore. Graduate transfer Gehrig Dieter has the experience and the high-top fade that none of his teammates can boast.

"That’s what makes it funny, because every day we just make jokes," junior Cam Sims said. "It’s a different group of guys coming from different places. They make the receiving room funny."

You might have glossed over junior Sims. He’s the quiet one of the bunch. When Ridley and the others start making jokes, Sims laughs along but is careful to not to be in the middle of the mayhem.

"If you start laughing too much, they’re going to make jokes on you," he said.

He might have to be in the middle this week, though. Stewart is questionable for Saturday’s game against Kent State after sustaining a sprained knee in the first quarter against Ole Miss. Sims is the next man up, head coach Nick Saban said.

The junior only has one catch for 12 yards this season, but he’s the best bet to replace Stewart. He’s earned the chance.

"Robert (Foster) will play some but the guy that’s been playing really well for us is Cam Sims, so we would play him as well," Saban said. "And there will be an opportunity for some others to play."

Sims has the skills to make an impact. He loves deep routes, and freshman quarterback Jalen Hurts has shown he has the arm strength to deliver. Sims said he wants to be known for his ability to take the top off a defense. It helps that he’s 6-5.

"And fast," he said.

His first big play downfield hasn’t happened yet; his longest career catch is 22 yards. But he says he’ll start winning jump balls soon enough.

"Going deep, just throw it." Sims said. "Put it out there. I’ll go get it."

Freshman Trevon Diggs may also get more chances this week, Saban said. He also only has one catch this year, but has earned respect from many of his more experienced teammates. They’ve seen what Sims and Diggs can do day after day in practice.

"We don’t just have two (great receivers)," senior safety Eddie Jackson said. "Robert Foster, Cam Sims, Trevon Diggs. Guys like that. They come out and compete and give you their best every day."

Stewart is still around Diggs and Sims this week. He returned to the sideline against the Rebels to help motivate his teammates. He still talks with the other receivers every day. Sims tries to learn from other players, whether it’s in practice, in games or in the meeting room.

Saturday could be his best chance yet to show what he’s learned. He already has a pretty good idea of where he can help.

"With all the quarterbacks out there, I tell them to just throw it," he said.

Reach Ben Jones at ben@tidesports.com or 205-722-0196.