Philadelphia Eagles NFL Draft profiles: Alabama WR Jaylen Waddle

Alabama Crimson Tide wideout Jaylen Waddle may be one of the best at his position. He’s only 22 years old, but he could still help the Philadelphia Eagles in a major way with his unique combination of speed, quickness, lateral movement, and great hands. It’s more than obvious that the Birds are in need of an upgrade, and Waddle could be the playmaker that helps Philly’s offense get back on track.

With seventeen touchdown receptions (and a long of 94 yards), the five-foot-ten, 185-pound rising star has the ability to score from anywhere. He’s perhaps one of the better route runners in the 2021 NFL Draft as he possesses a quick twitch and the ability to separate at the top of routes.

Imagining the Alabama product in the Philadelphia Eagles’ offense would have any fan salivating, especially with the skill set that Waddle brings. He’s capable of helping in the run game as well, whether he’s blocking or carrying the ball. He has the wheels to make defenders miss and pull away for large gains. Despite suffering a broken ankle earlier in the 2020 season Waddles seems to be totally healed and ready to become a difference-maker on the offensive side of the ball.

Here’s something else that will interest Philadelphia Eagles fans.

We at ITI spoke with a scouting source and asked him his opinion of the ‘Tuscaloosa Terror’. While he did not want to be named, he had this to say:

"Jaylen Waddle is an explosion in a bottle and is a threat to score from anywhere at any time. Give the kid the ball and get out of his way, just let him go really. You know right now his teammate Devonta Smith is sort of the media darling, the guy we are all talking about, and for good reason really. He won the Heisman. He deserves the accolades, but let’s not forget we came into the year with all eyes on Waddle."

He also compared Waddle to a current NFL receiver that isn’t a stranger to any NFL fan.

"He’s a playmaker and a guy that I feel in the right spot could be a Tyreek Hill type of player, a guy that can take the top off the defense. He is the real deal and it’s as simple as just putting on the film and seeing why he should be considered one of the best wideouts in the 2021 NFL Draft. Fans have short memories and may argue against him, but they would be wrong really. He is a real problem for offenses. Remember, give him the ball and get out of the way."

It’s not bad advice really. Just put on the film and decide for yourself. Jaylen Waddle might be the most explosive receiver that we’re calling a Day 1 prospect. No matter the scenario, on passing plays, running plays, or on special teams, he’s a threat to take passes, handoffs, kicks, or punts the distance. Once he has the ball in his hands, there’s always a chance of him doing something amazing.