Alabama's O.J. Howard named to Mackey Award watch list

It’s now or never for Alabama’s junior tight end O.J. Howard.

The Mackey Award foundation released its list of tight ends to watch for in 2015, and according to Tim Daniels of Bleacher Report, Alabama’s O.J. Howard was in the conversation.

The 6-foot-6, 242-pound Howard was underused last season. He developed into a solid blocker, however, Howard recorded just 17 catches for 260 yards in 14 games. Offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin has to create opportunities to get him more involved.

A former five-star prospect, Howard was exceptional for Alabama as a freshman in 2013.

He totaled 269 yards and two touchdowns on 14 receptions in 13 games.

Howard’s best performance came against LSU, when he caught a 10-yard slant pass from quarterback AJ McCarron and took it for a 52-yard touchdown.

With a new face under center, 2015 could be the year for Howard.

Stephen M. Smith is a staff writer and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine, Pick Six Previews and SB Nation. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.

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Stephen M. Smith

Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a senior writer and reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. He has covered Alabama football for 15 years and his knowledge and coverage of the Crimson Tide's program have made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.