Nick Saban on Malik Benson: He's a lot more confident, can make a contribution this year

Alabama dipped into the JUCO market this offseason, grabbing one player from both sides of the ball. At wide receiver, Malik Benson comes in as an exciting addition to Tommy Rees‘ system. And if you ask head coach Nick Saban, the impact could be coming right away.

“He’s done a nice job,” Saban said on Benson. “He’s a lot more confident. Playing faster, catching the ball well. I think a guy that can really make a contribution for us this year.”

Benson, who was the No. 1 JUCO player in 2023 according to the On3 Industry Rankings, was rated five-stars by On3. The Hutchinson C.C. wideout by way of Lansing, Kansas, enrolled at Alabama in January and quickly made a positive impression on his teammates.

“Malik’s a hard worker. He’s always been a hard worker since he got here,” fellow Alabama receiver Ja’Corey Brooks said. “He’s just going to take the coaching, accept the coaching, and just work hard.”

Wide receiver is a tricky position for Alabama at the moment. For years, everyone was used to having first-round talent and even a Heisman Trophy winner. Even with the likes of John Metchie and Jameson Williams on the roster, the Crimson Tide never had questions.

Benson arrived in Tuscaloosa with a strong pedigree. Over the last two seasons at Hutchinson C.C., he caught 97 passes for 3,381 reception yards and 21 touchdowns. His 2,152 receiving yards as a sophomore also broke the school record.

The On3 comparison is one Alabama fans will have fond memories of, at least on the field. Benson is comparable to Henry Ruggs III, a player who excelled during his time in Tuscaloosa. Between his efficiency and speed, the Crimson Tide would welcome that back to the 2023 team in the form of Benson.

“Malik Benson brings verified athleticism and a playing style that reminds us of Henry Ruggs III,” it read on Benson’s On3 Database profile. “Both were track stars in high school, winning state titles and running as low as in the 10.4-second range in the 100 meters. Benson is slightly taller and a bit longer than Ruggs. The easy, explosive stride and ability to present a deep threat and take a quick slant to the house are similar, as well.”

Ruggs had over 1,700 yards during his college games and was a touchdown machine. A total of 24 were scored by the speedster while working with the quarterback trio of Jalen Hurts, Tua Tagovailoa, and Mac Jones. Not too shabby of a lineup there either.

While it may not be at the level of Ruggs, Saban expects Benson to make some kind of contribution this season. Whoever winds up winning the Alabama quarterback competition will surely need the help. Getting a consistent playmaker onto the field would answer a ton of questions as the season progresses.