When it comes to producing generational talent at the wide receiver position, the University of Alabama has a storied history.
Three remarkable athletes came, went, and have left a historic mark on the football program and the sport as a whole: Julio Jones, Amari Cooper, and DeVonta Smith. While we can talk about how great each of them were, the question remains, which of them reigns supreme in this specific argument?
Julio Jones
Jones, a dominant force during his time at Alabama from 2008 to 2010, was a physical marvel.
Known for his combination of size, strength, and speed, Jones wreaked havoc on opposing defenses. In his college career, he accumulated 2,653 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns. While his stats may not be as eye-popping as some others, Jones’ ability to make clutch plays and create opportunities for his team was unmatched. His exceptional athleticism earned him numerous accolades and paved the way for his successful NFL career as a possible HOFer.
Awards and Accolades:
– Consensus All-American in 2010
– BCS National Champion in 2009
Amari Cooper
Cooper showcased exceptional route-running precision and fluidity during his time at Alabama from 2012 to 2014. His ability to create separation and find the open spaces on the field made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Cooper finished his college career with 3,463 receiving yards and 31 touchdowns. His impact was instrumental in Alabama’s national championship run in 2012. Cooper’s consistent performances and ability to make tough catches in crucial moments solidified his status as one of Alabama’s all-time greats.
Awards and Accolades:
– Consensus All-American in 2014
– Biletnikoff Award winner in 2014 (nation’s top wide receiver)
– SEC Offensive Player of the Year in 2014
DeVonta Smith
As one of the few Heisman winning wide receivers in the history of college football, DeVonta Smith had a mesmerizing college career from 2017 to 2020.
Smith’s route-running skills, exceptional hands, and elusiveness left defenders, coaches, analysts, and fans alike with the realization: Smith’s skill transcended his slimmer size, debunking any questions any doubts. In his senior year, he exploded onto the scene, securing the prestigious Heisman Trophy as the first wide receiver since 1991 to claim the honor.
Smith finished his college career with a remarkable 3,965 receiving yards and an astounding 46 touchdowns. His game-winning catch in the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship game further solidified his legacy.
Awards and Accolades:
– Heisman Trophy winner in 2020
– Biletnikoff Award winner in 2020
– Consensus All-American in 2020
– SEC Offensive Player of the Year in 2020
While all three wide receivers—Julio Jones, Amari Cooper, and DeVonta Smith—excelled at Alabama and made significant impacts on the field, it is clear that each possessed their own unique set of skills that allow me to include them in this argument. Julio Jones’ physical dominance, Amari Cooper’s route-running precision, and DeVonta Smith’s jaw-dropping catches and consistent performances have etched their names in the stones of college football history. The accomplishments, statistics, and awards demonstrate the exceptional talent that Alabama has produced at the wide receiver position. While the debate may persist, it is indisputable that all three have rightfully earned their place among college football’s elite wide receivers.
So it’s up to you: Who do you think is the best among these three Alabama wide receivers, and with that, who is the greatest in the history of the program?
