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Kalen DeBoer’s Alabama Crimson Tide will square off against Michigan in the ReliaQuest Bowl on New Year’s Eve in a rematch of the 2024 Rose Bowl. During the week of preparation, Jaylen Mbakwe has been playing a different position as he has been practicing at the wide receiver position.
DeBoer was asked about Mbakwe’s move to wide receiver for the bowl game, and the Alabama coach indicated offense is in his future.
“I think you’ll see us continue to move in this direction with him,” DeBoer told reporters Monday. “He’s really been focused on the offensive side, really all of bowl prep. It was natural, No. 1 because of numbers, but No. 2, just because I think of what he can do as a football player.”
On December 16, Mbakwe announced that he would be entering the transfer portal and leaving Alabama. He quickly changed his mind, and announced on the next day that he would be staying at Alabama.
His play at receiver during the bowl week prep has been noticed by teammates, including star quarterback Jalen Milroe.
“He looks good, he’s definitely talented.” Milroe told reporters, per AL.com. “It’s been good to have him on our offensive side of the ball and see him pick it up. It’s been quick, it’s been a quick turnaround going from DB to receiver, and how much he’s grasped in that short period of time. Imagine if we’d had him the whole season, how well he’d be playing for us. I’m definitely happy to have him on our side of the ball, he’s done a really good job.”
Tuesday is a big opportunity for Mbakwe to show that he belongs on that side of the ball and can be another great receiver alongside Ryan Williams.
