Nick Saban updates return specialist battle following JoJo Earle injury

Losing JoJo Earle is huge for Alabama, particularly the punt return game. He took 16 returns for 88 yards last season, but now someone will need to replace him.

Nick Saban shared who could fill the role after Earle suffered a Jones fracture in his foot and will miss six to eight weeks, Saban announced Wednesday. He listed multiple names, including transfer portal newcomers Jahmyr Gibbs and Jermaine Burton, who could step into that spot.

However, Saban made one thing clear: He wants consistency at the position.

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“Jahmyr has done a really good job as a kickoff returner,” Saban said. “I think we’re trying to develop depth behind him. JoJo did some punt returning last year. He had made a significant amount of improvement in judgement, fielding the balls and all those types of things. We were encouraged by that. Kool-Aid [McKinstry]’s been back there, Jermaine Burton has been back there. So we just have to see.

“The No. 1 important thing on punt return is possession of the ball. We’d like to get a first down and average over 10 yards a punt return. That’s great for field position. But possession of the ball has to be the most important thing. The guy that’s going to be the most consistent fielder is going to be the guy that has the opportunity to do it until JoJo gets back.”

Nick Saban reveals preseason injury to JoJo Earle

John Metchie and Jameson Williams are off to the NFL, meaning there is a major void to fill for Alabama at wide receiver. Jermaine Burton and Tyler Harrell were brought in via the transfer portal while guys already on campus such as JoJo Earle and Ja’Corey Brooks are expected to step into a more significant role.

However, the Crimson Tide will be without Earle for some time.

Earle suffered a foot injury in practice recently, Nick Saban confirmed during his press conference on Wednesday. The young wide receiver was expected to be a starter in the slot for Alabama to begin the season but is more than likely going to be out for some time.

Saban said recovery for the injury takes six to eight weeks.

“Maybe by Oct. 1 or something like that, he’ll be close to being ready to come back,” Saban said.