Alabama’s receiving room took a hit after a dramatic 2021 season. Fortunately, a new face is helping to stabilize the wide receiver group heading into 2022.

During the 2021 campaign, Jameson Williams and John Metchie both eclipsed 1,100 yards receiving with Williams hitting the 1,500-yard mark. Those players are now off to the NFL, as is Slade Bolden who had 408 yards and 3 touchdowns last season.

Trying to replace at least some of that production, Alabama added Georgia receiver Jermaine Burton via the transfer portal. Burton’s decision was especially a head-scratcher for some after the Bulldogs won their first national championship since 1980 with a win over Alabama.

Either way, Burton is now in Tuscaloosa and ready to contribute to the Tide. After Saturday’s A-Day, head coach Nick Saban took time to highlight Burton’s early work.

According to Saban, Burton has been the most consistent receiver for the Crimson Tide during the spring practices. Saban does like some of what he’s seen from the young players, but it sounds like Burton will be a key piece for Alabama during 2022.

Burton finished the 2021 season with 497 yards receiving for Georgia. That mark was second on the Bulldogs behind TE Brock Bowers but Burton did average 19.1 yards per catch. It will be interesting to see how Burton and QB Bryce Young pair together in live action this fall.