Scouting Journals for Jaylen Mbakwe

One of the more dynamic two-way athletes early on in the 2024 cycle. Has starred on both sides of the ball for one of the top high school programs in Alabama. Measured at a shade under 5-foot-11 and around 170 pounds with a 30.5-inch arm and 8.25-inch hand. Has outstanding play speed, which he backs up on the track. Won the Alabama state titles in the 100m (10.70 seconds) and 200m (21.57 seconds) as a junior. Pulls away in the open field, easily out-running defenders. Dynamic with the ball in his hands both as a receiver and return man. Also shows the ability to separate on vertical routes. Has several kicks for touchdowns. Spent much of his time on offense as a junior, despite projecting as a cornerback long-term. Was a productive defensive back as a sophomore with high level ball production, totaling 4 interceptions and 12 pass breakups. Has a smaller, slighter frame and will need to continue honing his technique once he fully focuses on playing cornerback.

Alabama signee Jaylen Mbakwe (No. 31) is the fastest corner prospect in the cycle. Mbakwe was a do-it-all player for powerhouse Pinson (Ala.) Clay-Chalkville, seeing time as a wide receiver and defensive back before flipping to quarterback as a senior and leading the Cougars to a state title. He doubles as a track star, winning state titles in the 100 and 200 meters as a junior. Though not as experienced or polished in coverage relative to his fellow highly-ranked peers, Mbakwe’s playmaking ability and elite speed project well to corner with continued technical development.

Jaylen Mbakwe wasted no time getting started on Friday night. The touted Alabama commit took his first touch to the house from 75 yards out. Mbakwe showed off his high-end play speed, taking a quick out and beating defenders to the corner before racing down the sideline for the long score. The 5-foot-11, 170-pounder was dynamic every time he touched the ball both at receiver and as a return man. Mbakwe wasn’t needed much as the defending state champions cruised to an easy 48-0 win over Briarwood Christian and Clemson quarterback commit Christopher Vizzina.