The University of Alabama, especially in the Nick Saban era, has found its superstar wide receiver in a freshman.
Julio Jones, Amari Cooper, Calvin Ridley, Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs III, DeVonta Smith, and Jaylen Waddle proved the statement above accurate. These players impressed coaches, fans, and teammates in practice and games — showing the college football landscape the game was theirs to take. It appears the Crimson Tide has another rising star at the position.
RELATED: WATCH: Alabama freshman WR Jalen Hale putting in work to make impact in year one
Jalen Hale, a native Texan, emerged in Alabama’s 24-10 victory over Mississippi. He had two receptions for 63 yards, including a 33-yard touchdown catch from Jalen Milroe. The 6-foot-1, 189-pounder plays on the ground with speed, routes, and moves, but he also attacks the ball in the air. Hale’s marquee score came on a contested catch as he took the ball away from a defensive back.
DJ Hall, an Alabama football legend, was one of the best receivers in school history. He came during an era when the Tide was not a prominent passing program; however, Hall made his mark. The native Floridian is fourth all-time for career receptions (194), third for receiving yards (2,923), and tied for seventh in touchdowns (17). Hall likes what he’s seeing from Hale as a four-star freshman. In a conversation with Justin Riley of the Bama Standard, Hall reacted to what he enjoys the most in Hale’s game.
“He’s nice,” Hall said about Hale. “I just wish we could get him the ball more. I love the way he uses his hands to catch and the way he attacks the ball.”
RELATED: Has Alabama found its next breakout wide receiver in Jalen Hale?
Hale had multiple teammates say they noticed his work ethic in the summer.
He’s climbed up the depth chart and is earning time on the field. Coach Saban wants to see Hale continue to grow in understanding his role within the offense. He has an opportunity to be special for the team in the future.
Hale has three catches for 68 yards and a touchdown in three games.
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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.
