True freshman instant impact player in 2021: JoJo Earle

Alabama has plenty of options on the offensive side of the ball. Sophomore quarterback Bryce Young is ready to take over the offense, and wideout John Metchie seems primed to be the next elite product developed by the Crimson Tide.

But true freshman JoJo Earle could become an instant impact player this season. A four-star recruit and the No. 49 overall prospect in the On300 class of 2021 rankings, he had 27 offers coming out of Aledo High School (Texas). Earle picked Alabama over LSU.

That’s why CBS Sports listed the 5-foot-9, 170-pound receiver as one of five freshmen ready to burst onto the scene and make immediate impact this fall.

“The Crimson Tide have plenty of weapons at wide receiver already, but there’s a chance for Earle to make an impact in the return game,” CBS Sports’ Ben Kercheval wrote. “Special teams is a great way for young players to see the field and Earle has the type of speed and nimbleness to take almost every kick back for a touchdown.

“A two-sport athlete in high school in football and track in Aledo, Texas, Earle should continue Alabama’s now long lineage of speedy pass-catchers who can score from pretty much anywhere.”

JoJo Earle skyrocketing up Crimson Tide depth chart

Alabama entered the preseason with big roles to fill in the wide receiver room. The Crimson Tide has had a true freshman emerge as a real option in the pass game this season. 

Alabama released its first depth chart of the season on Monday, and the true freshman debuted next to veteran Slade Bolden at the H wideout position. 

“JoJo’s had a really good camp, very quick, very fast,” Nick Saban said. “Really good in and out of a break, really good route runner, very consistent catcher. So, he’s done a really good job and obviously he’ll have some opportunity to play in the game.”

While DeVonta Smith and Jaylen Waddle were each drafted in the opening round of April’s draft, Alabama had to find new playmakers. Metchie is expected to be a huge part of the Crimson Tide’s offense, and Saban added Ohio State receiver Jameson Williams through the transfer portal. 

Earle could be the third weapon used by Bryce Young. The true freshman did not enroll until this summer but Monday’s depth chart shows he is a serious contender to be a starter when Alabama kicks off the season Saturday against Miami.