By: Brett Greenberg
TUSCALOOSA, AL. - Following his junior season, Alabama football receiver Jaylen Waddle was selected Thursday by the Miami Dolphins in the first round with the No. 6 overall pick of the 2021 NFL Draft.
Waddle made his presence felt the minute he stepped onto the field his freshman season at UA. Waddle led all first-year SEC receivers in catches and yards per game. He also was named a Freshman All-American by The Athletic. In his sophomore season, Waddle was named first-team All-America and returned five kicks for touchdowns. Waddle's junior year was cut short after he injured his ankle against Tennessee.
Waddle rehabilitated all season and was able to dress out for the Crimson Tide in the national championship game.
Here's what the Dolphins are getting in Waddle.
The positives
Waddle might be the most dynamic all-around offensive player in the draft. Waddle led the nation in return yards (24.4) his sophomore season while totaling 1,227 all-purpose yards.
Waddle was honored as SEC Freshman of the year (2018) and SEC Special Teams Player of the Year (2019). The speedy receiver also holds three of the longest scoring receptions in Alabama history.
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The concerns
At Alabama, Waddle had the luxury of not having the best defender on him because he has always played alongside receivers like Henry Ruggs, Jerry Jeudy and Heisman Trophy winner DeVonta Smith. Because of this, there are some questions about how well Waddle's elusiveness can translate to the NFL, given the size and athleticism of NFL corners.
Final thoughts
Waddle may not be the highest-ranked receiver on the board, but the ceiling for Waddle is close to that of Kansas City's Tyreek Hill. It may take some time for Waddle to get comfortable with the difference in size and speed in the NFL, but he has all the makings of a cornerstone franchise receiver. Waddle's presence could also be felt immediately due to the fact he is a constant threat to return a kick or punt for a touchdown.
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