He had an iconic performance versus Auburn in the Iron Bowl and national media has recognized him as an All-American, but Jaylen Waddle is not satisfied. It seems like everyone is taking Nick Saban’s phrase “don’t waste a failure” to heart, as Waddle was the second player in interviews to mention how this team wants to finish the year strong.
After a loss to the Tigers, the sophomore is solely focused on Michigan and is excited to play in the Citrus Bowl.
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In terms of his fellow teammates — Jerry Jeudy, Devonta Smith and Henry Ruggs III — Waddle told reporters that the group has not spoke on the decision that the trio of juniors will have to make. All three receivers project as first-rounders for the 2020 NFL Draft. While his All-American status has come from his work as a return specialists, Waddle said he trains hard at receiver and punt returner. To his defense, he does have 553 yards receiving with six touchdowns on 32 catches.
He led the nation in punt return yards (25 yards per return) and totaled two scores on special teams.
The native Texan will face his former position coach, Josh Gattis, on New Year’s Day. Even with two players opting out of the matchup and being without six defensive starters, Waddle is locked in on doing everything possible to win the game.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
