NFL Draft pundits have started their Way Too Early first-round projections for 2022.
Jahleel Billingsley has to be considered as one of those players. The money year is now upon him at the University of Alabama.
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A native of Chicago, Ill., Billingsley came to life in 2020 as a tight end. During the final seven games of last season, Steve Sarkisian targeted the former four-star a lot. He caught 17 passes for 274 yards with three touchdowns. Billingsley’s three scores came in matchups against Auburn, LSU, and Notre Dame. The 6-foot-4, 230-pounder showcased his hands, speed, routes, and hurdling abilities for Alabama fans. He ended with 18 catches for 287 yards but is prepared to do more in the fall. Bill O’Brien produced greatness with Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez in the National Football League.
Both players were successful tight ends for the New England Patriots. O’Brien would also coach production from the position at Penn State and the Houston Texans.
He now has a tight end in Billingsley that operates as a wide receiver. Before summer workouts and fall camp begins, Billingsley has started his offseason training. According to his father, Charles, a video was posted to Twitter of Billingsley working on his athleticism with a medicine ball. Alabama will use him in different ways this season but expect to see him split outside.
Gotta get to it GRIND SEASON. #ROLLTIDE pic.twitter.com/qPMqvjWky6
— Charles BILLINGSLEY (@Charles98379562) May 5, 2021
After watching the success of Kyle Pitts at Florida, the Tide feels Billingsley can provide the same effect.
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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.
