Alabama football’s freshman defensive back, Jaylen Mbakwe is expected to fill the role as the Tide’s primary punt returner against Wisconsin with Cole Adams ‘doubtful’ for the game.
Mbakwe is a former five-star out of Clay-Chalkville High School, and his blend of speed and athleticism is something opponents must respect. He is comfortable with the football in his possession after playing wide receiver and quarterback throughout his career with the Cougars.
Alabama 5-Star commit, Jaylen Mbakwe @JayMbakwe feels he will have opportunity to play early at Alabama.
The exciting playmaker talks recruiting for Alabama, future position in Tuscaloosa and more.
READ: https://t.co/PCzi2Q5TCl pic.twitter.com/gUSW88UAEF
— Justin Smith (@Jdsmith31Smith) September 7, 2022
The freshman ripped off a 28-yard return in the Tide’s win over USF to set up a drive, which resulted in a touchdown pass from Jalen Milroe to Kobe Prentice in the fourth quarter.
Mbakwe’s dynamic ability to be productive is not unfamiliar to anyone who has watched his development so far.
The former five-star has clocked in a sub 11 100-meter dash on several occasions. He also led Clay-Chalkville to a state championship as its starting quarterback as a senior. A few years before, Mbakwe helped the Cougars win a state championship as a sophomore while lining up at wide receiver and cornerback.
Alabama 5-Star commit Jaylen Mbakwe @JayMbakwe gets shifty for his 2nd TD of the night.
He has the potential to be special on either side of the football at the next level. pic.twitter.com/hQ4KpQUzIX
— Justin Smith (@Jdsmith31Smith) September 9, 2023
Alabama and Wisconsin will settle things in the field Saturday with an 11 a.m. kickoff schedule, and Mbakwe is someone Tide fans should watch this weekend.
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Justin Smith is the Director of Recruiting for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can follow him on Twitter, via @Jdsmith31Smith
