TUSCALOOSA, Ala.– He had no problems contributing at both wide receiver and defensive back during his high school days and in his freshman season at the University of Alabama, but head coach Nick Saban has better things in store for Trevon Diggs in the upcoming fall.
The four-star prospect and returning sophomore was one of few aspects Saban discussed at the media portion of the program’s annual fan day on last week. After reeling in 11 catches for 88 receiving yards and a touchdown in 2016, Saban wants Diggs to focus on defense.
“We’re not going down that road right now,” Saban said upon being asked if Diggs would continue to split time between offense and defense for next season. “We are really trying to develop him as a cornerback on our team.”
While the Tide returns Calvin Ridley, Cam Sims and Robert Foster to its receiving corps, signing Jerry Jeudy, Tyrell Shavers, DeVonta Smith and Henry Ruggs III to its 2017 class gives it much depth at the position.
Along with this information, Alabama is also set to lose Minkah Fitzpatrick, Ronnie Harrison, Tony Brown, Anthony Averett and Hootie Jones from its secondary at the conclusion of this season – which is more of a reason to transition Diggs over.
“We really feel good about the young wide receivers we have, so we are giving them as many reps as we can,” Saban said. “And hopefully, at some point in this season, they’ll be able to make a contribution. Trevon is focused on one thing, which I think is important with young players to find a role so they can be effective in that role.”
Despite having some issues at corner in the Tide’s spring game, Diggs isn’t the first receiver that Saban has moved over to defense. Former Alabama standout Cyrus Jones is a Maryland native, much like Diggs. Jones, a product of Gilman High School in Baltimore, came in 2012 as a slot receiver but was flipped to corner in the summer of 2013.
Even with some early troubles, Jones would adjust and become a seasoned veteran in 2015; the year the Tide captured a national title. His solid play on defense led to exceptional outings on special teams – 42 punt returns, 530 yards, four scores – and opened the door for him to be taken by the New England Patriots in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft.
Should junior defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick be forced to remain at safety, Diggs could line up opposite Anthony Averett this fall.
Stephen M. Smith is a managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebookor “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
