Alabama football will be without a significant offensive player for the rest of the season.
Cole Adams, a redshirt freshman, suffered a lower body injury against Missouri. The Oklahoma native left Saban Field on crutches after a 34-0 victory over the Tigers. Adams, a former four-star in the 2023 recruiting class, was starting to make production as a receiver. He did not record a catch versus Missouri; however, Adams had two catches for 57 yards receiving in Alabama’s 27-25 narrow win over South Carolina. JaMarcus Shephard, the Tide’s wide receivers coach, called Adams “Mr. Reliable” in spring practice, and he was starting to live up to the name. He has six receptions for 94 yards in eight games.
Adams was also Alabama’s starting punt returner.
He totaled 11 returns for 58 yards. Kalen DeBoer updated the media Monday on Adams.
He said the second-year player is out for the season. Adams’ absence opens an opportunity for several names to step up. Kobe Prentice, Emmanuel Henderson Jr., Caleb Odom, and Jaren Hamilton all can step up at wide receiver.
We could also see more plays to Kendrick Law in the offense.
Prentice, a junior, needs to get into the offensive flow. He sustained a concussion against Vanderbilt and has not been on the same page with Jalen Milroe since his return. Henderson, a third-year player, has four explosive catches.
He is averaging 20.5 yards per reception with 80 yards on four catches. Henderson, an Alabama native, has gotten better at executing routes.
Odom, a true freshman, has the physicality at 6’5″ and 227 pounds to be a massive weapon.
Jaren Hamilton has yet to record a catch all season, but he is capable too. Jaylen Mbawke and Ryan Williams are the immediate next men up to replace Adams on punt return. Mbakwe has one return for 28 yards, while Williams has four returns for 31 yards.
Adams’ absence is tough for Alabama, but the Tide has guys ready to step up.
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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
