Alabama’s WR Room Poised for Major Leap Under JaMarcus Shepherd
In 2021, Jameson Williams and John Metchie each surpassed 1,000 receiving yards for Alabama football. Since then, the Crimson Tide has yet to produce another 1,000-yard receiver, largely due to inconsistent evaluation and development at the position.
One of the most significant upgrades from Nick Saban to Kalen DeBoer is at wide receiver. JaMarcus Shepherd has already proven to be a substantial improvement over Holmon Wiggins, and the wide receiver unit should take another massive step forward in 2025.
It’s no surprise that Alabama’s top two receivers last season were both newcomers. Ryan Williams, a true freshman, and Germie Bernard, a transfer from Washington, combined for 98 catches, 1,659 yards, and 10 touchdowns. The next closest WR, Kendrick Law, managed just 129 yards and one touchdown, primarily making his mark as a blocker rather than a receiving threat.
Revamped WR Room Ready to Shine
The most significant roster shake-up this offseason came at wide receiver. Shepherd wanted his guys, and now he has them. Departing the program are Kendrick Law, Kobe Prentice, Emmanuel Henderson Jr., and Caleb Odom.
Meanwhile, Alabama has reloaded with Miami (FL) transfer Isaiah Horton and incoming freshmen Derek Meadows and Lotzeir Brooks. The team is also continuing its experiment with former five-star cornerback Jaylen Mbakwe, who has shown a strong interest in transitioning to offense after a promising year at CB.
DeBoer emphasized that all three quarterbacks competing for the starting job are “pass-first” players. This is a notable shift from Jalen Milroe, whose dual-threat ability often led to an inconsistent passing attack. That change could help Alabama return to its former dominance in the passing game.
Williams & Bernard: The Next Great Alabama Duo?
Ryan Williams was electric as a freshman, making jaw-dropping plays that wouldn’t seem out of place on Sundays—impressive for a 17-year-old. His development into a sophomore should be even more impressive, and he is already a strong Biletnikoff Award candidate.
Williams saw defenses shift their focus toward him as the season progressed, which allowed Germie Bernard to emerge as Alabama’s most consistent receiver down the stretch. Over the final nine games, Bernard had at least 60 receiving yards in eight of them, highlighted by a standout performance in the Iron Bowl (7 catches, 111 yards).
His decision to return for his senior year gives Alabama an elite 1-2 punch at wide receiver, a crucial asset as the team transitions to a new quarterback.
Depth and Talent Behind the Star Duo
Last season, Alabama lacked a reliable third receiving option. That’s why DeBoer and Shepherd went into the Transfer Portal and landed Isaiah Horton from Miami. Horton had 56 receptions for 616 yards and five touchdowns last season, and at 6’4″, he offers a physical presence that complements Williams and Bernard. Expect him to see plenty of action as a big slot receiver.
Another player to watch is Jalen Hale, who flashed potential as a freshman before suffering a torn ACL in the preseason. If he fully recovers, he could be tough to keep off the field. Jaylen Mbakwe is another wild card—his elite athleticism could make him a serious contributor if he transitions smoothly to receiver.
The coaching staff also has faith in Cole Adams, a redshirt sophomore who saw action last season before a season-ending injury. He could play a role as a punt returner as well.
Rico Scott gained valuable experience in bowl practices, and while he caught just one pass for 9 yards in the ReliaQuest Bowl, he showcased playmaking ability on an end-around for 28 yards and had an impressive touchdown grab against Mercer.
Freshman Derek Meadows has already turned heads during early workouts. At 6’5″, he’s another big-bodied target who is physically ready to contribute immediately. Meanwhile, Lotzeir Brooks is an underrated gem from the 2025 recruiting class, whose speed and ability to win contested catches make him an exciting addition to the room.
A New Era for Alabama’s Wide Receivers
With another year under JaMarcus Shepherd’s guidance, the Crimson Tide’s receiver group should make a significant leap in 2025. As the program moves further away from Wiggins’ influence, expect continued progress.
Ryan Williams and Germie Bernard both have the potential to surpass 1,000 yards next season, forming one of the best receiving duos in college football. However, the biggest difference for Alabama will be the improved depth behind them, ensuring a more consistent and explosive passing attack.
