Alabama graduated an explosive playmaker in Jameson Williams to the NFL Draft, but it has someone from the transfer that can fill his shoes.
Jermaine Burton, a transfer from the University of Georgia, has dominated spring practices for the Crimson Tide. He quickly earned the respect of Coach Nick Saban, wide receivers coach Holmon Wiggins, and his teammates.
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Burton shows consistent hands, explosive speed, smooth routes, and a strong work ethic. The 6-foot, 200-pounder scored a touchdown in Alabama’s first scrimmage and responded with another productive outing. He caught 26 passes for 497 yards and five touchdowns in 2021 for the Bulldogs. Burton posted 53 receptions for 901 yards and eight touchdowns in two years at Georgia. He assisted the Bulldogs to a College Football Playoff National Championship victory over Alabama, but Burton is about to explode for the Tide. Saban raved about Burton’s big-play abilities after today’s game-like practice.
“He made a couple of big plays today, and he’s had a good spring,” Saban said. “He’s been really productive. He was productive again today; I think he had seven catches. He made a couple of big plays. We need everyone else to play with more consistency, and he’s a good addition to us. Hopefully, we can continue to improve around him.”
Burton’s experience, leadership, and explosiveness have allowed him to separate himself as Alabama’s top receiver for this season.
Williams needed one year in Tuscaloosa to prepare him for first-round draft status. Burton eyes the same success as he enters the fall for Alabama.
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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.
