Even with losing Jerry Jeudy and Henry Ruggs III to the upcoming NFL Draft, Alabama still returns a roster of playmakers at wide receiver. DeVonta Smith’s decision to come back for his senior year is huge and Jaylen Waddle will enter his junior season next fall.
Despite it also having Slade Bolden, John Metchie, Xavier Williams and a few talented names coming in the 2020 signing class, there is one player that appears to finally be ready to take the next step and break into the rotation. Tyrell Shavers, a native of Lewisville, Texas, was in the 2017 class with Tua Tagovailoa and the trio of Jeudy, Smith and Ruggs.
RELATED: UA wide receiver Tyrell Shavers in position to make waves next season
The 6-foot-6, 205-pounder was a four-star prospect and presence a big target for whomever is at quarterback.
Much of his plays came on special teams last season, as he collected a blocked punt for a touchdown versus Texas A&M.
He caught one pass through 12 games: a 20-yard reception against Western Carolina at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Depth at the position has forced Shavers to wait his turn, but this is the individual that Tide fans anticipate having a breakout season soon.
He’s lined up behind Smith at the “Z” position through three years, but there is potential for Shavers to now take the “X” spot that Ruggs exits.
Spring practice will be interesting when March and April roll in, but Shavers is prepared to emerge.
Prior to arriving at Alabama, he recorded 1,200 yards receiving with 20 scores on 64 catches in two years at Lewisville High School in 2015 and 2016.
Shavers and Mac Jones ran scout-team together as freshmen and both guys have developed a connection.
As Jones looks to fend off Taulia Tagovailoa, Bryce Young and Paul Tyson, it will be interesting to see the rise of Shavers for next fall.
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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.
