Bryce Young explains how Traeshon Holden has embraced his opportunity at Alabama

Alabama might have a new wide receiver blossoming into its next NFL-bound star. Junior wideout Traeshon Holden had a bit of a breakout in the first game of the 2022 season. He hauled in five catches for 70 yards and a pair of touchdowns against Utah State.

Few people were more excited for Holden than quarterback Bryce Young, who is glad to see his 2020 classmate breakout into another explosive option for him in the passing game. After the game, Young praised Holden, saying he could tell a breakout was in store from the way he had practiced.

“Yeah I think he’s been very consistent in his preparation. He shows up to practice every day. He always knows what’s going on. He’s paying attention. He’s studying the playbook, the game plan. Especially this week, you could tell he definitely took ownership, being comfortable and knowing what to do a. I think it showed.”

He looked really good. He always knew what’s going on and obviously he’s kind of — it’s new to everyone, seeing him for the first time on game day. But he’s been working really hard consistently throughout his time here. We came in together, so I’ve seen him grow, I’ve seen him work hard.”

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Bryce Young also mentioned how he’s glad to see Holden finally seize his opportunity after being a backup for a couple seasons.

“Obviously, you know, just how things have played out, he’s had to wait his turn. But he’s been working really hard. He’s a really smart guy. Really, really good player, developed a lot. So, you know, it definitely wasn’t something that surprised me or anything. I definitely knew he’d be ready. He prepares like a professional. So I’m excited to keep building with him and the rest of offense.”

Only one performance so far for Holden. So he’ll need to remain consistent. But he certainly seems like a much bigger part of the offense than a year ago. Though in 2021 he still got on the field plenty. Holden only appeared in 11 of the Crimson Tide’s 15 games but caught 21 total passes for 239 yards and a touchdown. Bryce Young hit him for two Saturday alone.

It’s a transition year for the wide receiver group as a whole. They lost Jameson Williams and John Metchie and started a completely new cast vs. Utah State than they did in 2021. So Holden very well could nab primary targets going forward if he continues to perform like this.