Yesterday for day 18, we took a look at a gunslinger that played in East Lansing, Michigan. Now today for day 17, we’ll be highlighting an elite pass catcher from Tuscaloosa.
Jaylen Waddle was born in Houston, Texas and played football at Episcopal High School in Bellaire, Texas. As a senior, he played in the U.S. Army All American Game. He committed to Alabama over Texas A&M, Oregon, and Florida State.
As a freshman, Waddle was named the 2018 SEC Freshman of the Year after he reeled in forty five passes for eight hundred and forty eight yards and seven touchdowns. This was Waddles best season in college.
In addition to being a big threat in the pass game, Waddle also returned sixteen punts for two hundred and thirty three yards and one touchdown as a freshman.
The following season as a sophomore, Waddle caught thirty three passes for five hundred and sixty yards for six touchdowns. For his efforts, Waddle was named First Team SEC as a return specialist and was named SEC Special Teams Player of the Year.
That same season, Waddle continued his dominance as a returner when he took a punt and kickoff to the house.
2020 was a disappointing year for Waddle as he broke his ankle in an October game against Tennessee. He caught twenty eight passes for five hundred and ninety one yards and four touchdowns. He returned to play in the National Title game against Ohio State.
Waddle declared for the 2021 NFL Draft in January and was taken sixth overall by the Miami Dolphins.
Tomorrow for day 16, we’ll take a look at a player from Waddles draft class, this time a quarterback.