The Best Alabama Crimson Tide Wide Receivers Of All Time
The best Alabama Crimson Tide wide receivers ever have all had a part in making Alabama one of the top-tier Division I college programs in the nation. While the early days of the college game were dominated by running backs, the rise of high-powered, high-scoring offenses means wide receivers have become a key piece of the college strategy.
Older players like Ozzie Newsome and David Bailey made their mark in the history of Alabama's offense with their great performances in the past, as newer players like Amari Cooper and Calvin Ridley carried on that legacy with tremendous talent and skill. The Crimson Tide have had many wide receivers go on to the NFL, and some even had Hall of Fame-level careers, but it all started with their days starting for Alabama football.
So which of these players from Alabama's long history deserves to rank near the top of the list? Who are the best Crimson Tide WRs of all-time? Vote below, and if you see any players missing from the list who should be considered, feel free to add them as well.
- 1
Crimson Tide career: 2008-2010
The imposing physical presence of Julio Jones on the field is matched by his exceptional athleticism and raw power, making him one of the most dominant wide receivers to come through Alabama. His combination of size, speed, and agility provided an impenetrable force for defenders, while his strong hands and ability to haul in contested catches set him apart from his peers. In addition, Jones' unwavering composure and incredible work ethic contributed to him amassing over 3,000 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns during his time at Alabama.
- Birthplace: Foley, Alabama
- Nationality: United States of America
- Team: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Position: Wide receiver
Crimson Tide career: 2017-2019
DeVonta Smith's unparalleled ability to run routes with precision and decisiveness has earned him a place in Alabama football history. His foot speed is arguably the best among the Crimson Tide receivers, allowing him to swiftly outpace defenders and generate explosive plays. As a master of adjusting his route mid-game, Smith exhibits extraordinary field awareness, and his reliable hands have led to numerous remarkable catches, including a phenomenal game-winning touchdown catch in the 2018 National Championship Game.
- Birthplace: Amite City, Louisiana
- Nationality: American
- Team: Philadelphia Eagles
- Position: Wide Receiver
- 3
Crimson Tide career: 2012-2014
Amari Cooper's silky smooth route-running skills and quickness off the line of scrimmage solidified his reputation as one of the most gifted wide receivers in Alabama history. His deceptive footwork allowed him to slip past defenders with ease, while his keen field awareness and exceptional hands allowed him to snatch passes in even the tightest windows. To top it off, Cooper's ability to track the ball in the air and make jaw-dropping grabs made him a constant threat on the field and a true game-changer for the Alabama offense.
- Birthplace: Miami, Florida
- Nationality: United States of America
- Team: Cleveland Browns
- Position: Wide receiver
Crimson Tide career: 2015-2017
The versatile and agile Calvin Ridley was a key contributor to the Alabama Crimson Tide's potent passing attack during his tenure. His impressive burstiness and speed allowed him to separate from defenders easily and create explosive plays downfield. Furthermore, Ridley's uncanny ability to find open spaces in the defense, coupled with his reliable hands and extraordinary leaping ability, made him a favorite target for Alabama quarterbacks.
- Birthplace: Coconut Creek, Florida
- Nationality: United States of America
- Team: Tennessee Titans
- Position: Wide receiver
Crimson Tide career: 2018-2019
Jaylen Waddle's electric playing style was exemplified by his blazing speed, elusive quickness, and dynamic playmaking ability. His penchant for making defenders miss in the open field granted him an air of unpredictability and excitement every time he touched the ball. With his sure hands and incredible agility, Waddle proved to be a consistent and dynamic receiving weapon during his time at Alabama, as well as a deadly threat on special teams as a returner.
- Birthplace: Houston, Texas
- Nationality: American
- Team: Miami Dolphins
- Position: Wide receiver
Crimson Tide career: 2017-2019
Jerry Jeudy's elite route-running skills, lightning-fast cuts, and extraordinary quickness have solidified his status as one of the best Alabama wide receivers of all time. His uncanny ability to effortlessly change directions without losing speed allowed him to consistently gain separation from defenders and turn short catches into huge plays. In addition to his impressive athleticism, Jeudy's unwavering focus and reliable hands transformed him into a complete package at the wide receiver position.
- Birthplace: Deerfield Beach, Florida
- Nationality: American
- Team: Denver Broncos
- Position: Wide receiver
- 7
Crimson Tide career: 1974-1977
The legendary Ozzie Newsome's toughness, exceptional hands, and outstanding leaping ability earned him a revered place among Alabama's all-time greats. His remarkable football IQ and innate understanding of defensive schemes helped him become one of the most prolific pass catchers in college football history. Newsome's dedication to the game and his unmatched work ethic led him to amass over 2,600 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns during his illustrious career at Alabama.
- Birthplace: Muscle Shoals, Alabama, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- Position: Tight end
- 8
Crimson Tide career: 2003-2005
Tyrone Prothro's incredible athleticism and dazzling ability to pluck the ball out of the air made him a dominant force during his time at Alabama. His breakneck speed and remarkable agility allowed him to leave defenders in the dust, while his quick thinking and field awareness made him an invaluable asset to the Crimson Tide offense. Despite his career being tragically cut short due to injury, Prothro's jaw-dropping plays and raw talent continue to be celebrated by Alabama fans today.
- Birthplace: Heflin, Alabama
- Nationality: United States of America
- Position: Wide receiver
Crimson Tide career: 2013-2016
As one of the most versatile players to suit up for the Crimson Tide, O.J. Howard was a deadly combination of size, speed, and athleticism. His ability to stretch the field as both a receiver and blocker made him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. In addition, Howard's reliable hands and uncanny knack for finding open spaces in the defense helped him amass over 1,000 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns during his tenure.
- Birthplace: Prattville, Alabama
- Nationality: American
- Team: Houston Texans
- Position: Tight end
Crimson Tide career: 2017-2019
Henry Ruggs' blazing speed and explosive burstiness made him a constant threat on the field during his time at Alabama. His ability to quickly accelerate and hit top speed in a matter of steps allowed him to blow past defenders and create game-changing plays. To complement his unparalleled speed, Ruggs possessed sure hands and impressive leaping ability, making him a formidable force in the college football world.
- Birthplace: Montgomery, Alabama
- Nationality: American
- Team: Las Vegas Raiders
- Position: Wide receiver
Crimson Tide career: 2017-2018
Irv Smith Jr.'s impressive combination of size, speed, and athleticism allowed him to excel as a tight end in the Alabama offense. His ability to create mismatches against linebackers and safeties made him a valuable asset in both the passing and running games. Furthermore, Smith's dependable hands and strong route-running skills contributed to a highly productive college career and solidified his status as one of the best tight ends in Alabama history.
- Birthplace: New Orleans, Louisiana
- Nationality: American
- Team: Minnesota Vikings
- Position: Tight end
- 12
Marquis Maze
Age: 35Crimson Tide career: 2008-2011
Marquis Maze's dynamic playmaking ability and top-notch agility made him a constant threat on the field for Alabama. His quick foot speed and ability to change direction with ease enabled him to leave defenders grasping at air, while his innate understanding of defensive coverages made him an invaluable asset to the Crimson Tide's passing game. In addition to his contributions as a wide receiver, Maze's remarkable skills as a returner only added to his well-deserved reputation as an all-around dangerous weapon.
- Birthplace: Tarrant, Alabama
- Nationality: United States of America
- Team: Alabama Crimson Tide Football
- Position: Wide receiver
- 13
Crimson Tide career: 1991-1993
David Palmer's nimble footwork, electrifying speed, and natural ability to make defenders miss in the open field made him a true offensive weapon during his time at Alabama. His versatility as a wide receiver, running back, and return specialist allowed him to contribute significantly to the Crimson Tide's success. Moreover, Palmer's remarkable spatial awareness and sheer determination helped him amass over 2,000 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns during his Alabama tenure.
- Birthplace: Birmingham, Alabama
- Nationality: United States of America
- Position: Return specialist, Kickoff returner, Wide receiver
- 14
DeAndrew White
Crimson Tide career: 2011-2014
DeAndrew White's blazing speed, superb agility, and outstanding athleticism made him a standout wide receiver for the Crimson Tide. His ability to create separation from defenders and find open spaces on the field made him a favorite target for Alabama quarterbacks. To top it off, White's sure hands and remarkable concentration allowed him to consistently haul in passes, even in the most high-pressure situations.
- Team: Alabama Crimson Tide Football
- 15
Kevin Norwood
Age: 35Crimson Tide career: 2010-2013
Kevin Norwood's incredible field awareness, precise route-running techniques, and unmatched determination placed him among the best wide receivers in Alabama history. His ability to identify and exploit weaknesses in opposing defenses made him a go-to target for Crimson Tide quarterbacks, while his reliable hands and exceptional leaping ability allowed him to make jaw-dropping catches. Norwood's willingness to put his body on the line to make plays only further cemented his status as an all-time great.
- Team: Alabama Crimson Tide Football
- 16
D. J. Hall
Age: 38Crimson Tide career: 2004-2007
D.J. Hall's phenomenal athleticism, precise route running, and explosive playmaking ability earned him a place among Alabama's all-time great wide receivers. His innate understanding of defensive schemes and exceptional field awareness made him a formidable target for Crimson Tide quarterbacks. Hall's incredible leaping ability, coupled with his secure hands, allowed him to snatch passes out of the air and consistently make spectacular catches throughout his career.
- Birthplace: Fort Walton Beach, Florida
- Position: Wide receiver
- 17
Ardarius Stewart
Crimson Tide career: 2014-2016
Ardarius Stewart's unique blend of speed, strength, and toughness made him a key contributor to the Alabama offense during his collegiate career. His dependable hands and physical style of play enabled him to consistently win contested catches, while his extraordinary athleticism and powerful bursts of speed made him a menace to opposing defenses. Stewart's unwavering focus and commitment to excellence helped him accumulate over 1,700 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns as a member of the Crimson Tide.
- 18
Kenny Bell
Crimson Tide career: 2010-2013
Kenny Bell's exceptional speed and quickness made him a valuable asset to the Alabama offense during his collegiate career. His precise route-running skills and innate ability to find open spaces in the defense allowed him to consistently make big plays for the Crimson Tide. Moreover, Bell's reliable hands and strong work ethic contributed to him accumulating over 1,400 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns during his time at Alabama.
- Team: Alabama Crimson Tide Football
- 19
Calvin Hall
Crimson Tide career: 1995-1998
Calvin Hall's remarkable athleticism, dependable hands, and keen field awareness made him a force to be reckoned with during his tenure at Alabama. His incredible route running techniques and ability to create separation from defenders allowed him to consistently make an impact on the field. In addition, Hall's unwavering commitment to excellence helped him accumulate over 1,000 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns throughout his Crimson Tide career.
- 20
Antonio Carter
Crimson Tide career: 1999-2001
Antonio Carter's quickness, versatility, and strong hands made him a significant contributor to the Alabama Crimson Tide offense. His impressive route-running and natural ability to adjust on the fly allowed him to create mismatches against opposing defenses. Furthermore, Carter's intelligence and strong work ethic enabled him to accumulate over 1,900 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns during his time at Alabama.
- 21
Crimson Tide career: 1965-1967
Dennis Homan's incredible leaping ability, extraordinary hands, and impressive route-running skills earned him a place amongst Alabama's all-time greats. His ability to track the ball in the air and make unbelievable catches made him a constant threat on the field and a fan favorite. Homan's unwavering dedication to the game and his tireless work ethic helped him amass over 2,000 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns during his time at Alabama.
- Birthplace: Muscle Shoals, Alabama
- Nationality: United States of America
- Position: Wide receiver
- 22
Freddie Milons
Age: 44Crimson Tide career: 1998-2001
Freddie Milons' electrifying speed, dazzling footwork, and incredible spatial awareness made him a dynamic playmaker during his tenure at Alabama. His proficiency as a wide receiver, running back, and return specialist allowed him to contribute significantly to the Crimson Tide's success. Moreover, Milons' unwavering focus and relentless work ethic helped him accumulate over 2,000 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns during his Alabama career.
- Position: Quarterback, Wide receiver
- 23
Crimson Tide career: 1964-1966
Ray Perkins' remarkable athleticism, impressive route-running, and dependable hands made him a key contributor to the Alabama offense during his collegiate career. His ability to identify and exploit weaknesses in opposing defenses made him a go-to target for Crimson Tide quarterbacks. Furthermore, Perkins' incredible leaping ability and sheer determination to make plays only further cemented his status as an all-time great in Alabama history.
- Birthplace: Petal, Mississippi
- Nationality: United States of America
- Position: Wide receiver
- 24
Greg Richardson
Crimson Tide career: 1983-1986
Greg Richardson's incredible quickness, agility, and natural ability to make defenders miss in the open field made him an invaluable asset to the Crimson Tide's offense. An exceptional route-runner, Richardson's ability to find open spaces in the defense and exploit them made him a favorite target for Alabama quarterbacks. Furthermore, his dependability and focus helped him accumulate over 1,500 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns throughout his collegiate career.
- 25
Joey Jones
Age: 62Crimson Tide career: 1980-1983
Joey Jones' exceptional hands, incredible leaping ability, and extraordinary spatial awareness made him a standout wide receiver for the Alabama Crimson Tide. His precise route-running techniques and ability to track the ball in the air allowed him to consistently make an impact on the field. Moreover, Jones' unwavering dedication to the game and tireless work ethic helped him amass over 2,000 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns during his time at Alabama.
- Birthplace: Mobile, Alabama
- Nationality: United States of America
- Position: Wide receiver
- 26
Kevin Lee
Crimson Tide career: 1990-1993
Kevin Lee's impressive combination of height, speed, and leaping ability made him a formidable force on the field for Alabama. His exceptional route-running skills and sure hands allowed him to consistently make big plays for the Crimson Tide offense. Furthermore, Lee's extraordinary athleticism made him a constant threat in the air, as he amassed over 2,000 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns during his time at Alabama.
- 27
Michael Vaughn
Crimson Tide career: 1995-1998
Michael Vaughn's extraordinary athleticism, exceptional hands, and outstanding route-running skills earned him a place amongst Alabama's all-time great wide receivers. His innate understanding of defensive schemes and his ability to exploit weaknesses in opposing defenses allowed him to consistently make an impact on the field. In addition, Vaughn's incredible work ethic led him to accumulate over 1,400 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns during his Alabama tenure.
- 28
Matt Caddell
Age: 39Crimson Tide career: 2004-2007
Matt Caddell's outstanding quickness, agility, and reliable hands made him a valuable asset to the Alabama Crimson Tide offense. His innate ability to create separation from defenders and find open spaces on the field made him a favorite target for quarterbacks. Additionally, Caddell's unwavering commitment to excellence and strong work ethic helped him accumulate over 1,500 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns throughout his collegiate career.
- Position: Wide receiver
- 29
Darius Hanks
Age: 35Crimson Tide career: 2007-2011
Darius Hanks' exceptional speed, reliable hands, and remarkable agility made him a standout member of the Alabama Crimson Tide's potent passing attack. His precise route-running and innate understanding of defensive coverages made him a go-to target for quarterbacks. As a result, Hanks amassed nearly 1,600 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns throughout his time at Alabama, solidifying his place among the program's all-time greats.
- Birthplace: Norcross, Georgia
- Nationality: United States of America
- Team: Alabama Crimson Tide Football
- Position: Wide receiver
- 30
David Bailey
Crimson Tide career: 1969-1971
David Bailey's elite route-running, blazing foot speed, and unparalleled field awareness made him a standout wide receiver for the Alabama Crimson Tide. His ability to quickly adapt and make adjustments on the fly allowed him to consistently outsmart defenses and make big plays. Moreover, Bailey's reliable hands and incredible determination to succeed helped him accumulate over 1,000 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns during his time at Alabama.
- 31
Christion Jones
Crimson Tide career: 2011-2014
Christion Jones' outstanding speed, quickness, and sheer athleticism made him an explosive playmaker on the field for Alabama. In addition to his contributions as a wide receiver, Jones' skills as a return specialist added another layer of danger to his game. His exceptional hands and tremendous field awareness enabled him to consistently make big plays for the Crimson Tide, both on offense and special teams.
- Team: Alabama Crimson Tide Football
- 32
Quincy Jackson
Crimson Tide career: 1997-1998
Quincy Jackson's exceptional route-running skills, reliable hands, and extraordinary leaping ability earned him a place among the best Alabama wide receivers of all time. His innate understanding of defensive schemes and his remarkable ability to adjust mid-play made him a formidable threat on the field. Jackson's unwavering focus and commitment to excellence during his tenure at Alabama led him to accumulate over 1,600 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns.
- 33
Marco Battle
Crimson Tide career: 1986-1989
Marco Battle's impressive stature and athleticism made him a formidable presence on the field during his tenure at Alabama. His remarkable leaping ability and secure hands allowed him to consistently make contested catches, while his strong route-running skills made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Moreover, Battle's unwavering commitment to excellence helped him amass over 1,200 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns during his time with the Crimson Tide.
- 34
Albert Bell
Age: 60Crimson Tide career: 1985-1986
Albert Bell's extraordinary foot speed, outstanding route-running skills, and sure hands made him one of the best wide receivers in Alabama history. His innate ability to read defenses and exploit weaknesses allowed him to consistently make an impact on the field. Additionally, Bell's incredible work ethic led him to accumulate over 1,000 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns during his time at Alabama.
- Birthplace: Birmingham, Alabama
- Position: Wide receiver
- 35
Toderick Malone
Crimson Tide career: 1993-1995
Toderick Malone's unique combination of strength, speed, and athleticism made him a key contributor to the Alabama Crimson Tide's potent passing attack. His impressive burstiness and ability to create separation from defenders made him a constant threat on the field. Furthermore, Malone's reliable hands and strong work ethic contributed to him amassing over 1,400 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns during his time at Alabama.
- 36
Curtis Brown
Crimson Tide career: 1991-1995
Curtis Brown's exceptional speed, agility, and dependability made him a valuable asset to the Alabama Crimson Tide offense. His remarkable ability to adjust on the fly and find open spaces in the defense allowed him to consistently make an impact on the field. In addition, Brown's tireless work ethic and unwavering dedication to the game contributed to him amassing over 1,200 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns during his college career.
- 37
Jesse Bendross
Crimson Tide career: 1980-1983
Jesse Bendross' extraordinary athleticism, superb footwork, and tremendous leaping ability earned him a spot among the best wide receivers in Alabama history. His unique combination of size, speed, and strength made him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. Additionally, Bendross' proficiency in reading defensive schemes and his dependable hands made him a reliable target on the field, amassing over 1,500 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns during his collegiate career.
- 38
Jason McAddley
Age: 45Crimson Tide career: 1998-2001
Jason McAddley's extraordinary athleticism, smooth route-running, and incredible leaping ability earned him a place among Alabama's all-time great wide receivers. His ability to track the ball in the air and make unbelievable catches made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. In addition, McAddley's unwavering dedication to the game and his unmatched work ethic led him to amass over 1,500 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns during his illustrious career at Alabama.
- Birthplace: New York City, New York
- Nationality: United States of America
- Position: Wide receiver
- 39
Keith Pugh
Crimson Tide career: 1977-1979
Keith Pugh's impressive combination of size, speed, and athleticism made him a dominant force during his tenure at Alabama. His exceptional route-running skills and dependable hands allowed him to consistently make big plays for the Crimson Tide offense. Furthermore, Pugh's unwavering focus and commitment to excellence helped him accumulate over 1,600 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns throughout his collegiate career.
- 40
Robert Foster
Crimson Tide career: 2015 - 2017
Robert Foster's blazing speed and explosive burstiness made him a formidable force on the field for Alabama. His ability to create separation from defenders and find open spaces on the field allowed him to consistently make big plays for the Crimson Tide. Furthermore, Foster's sure hands and impressive leaping ability made him a reliable target for Alabama quarterbacks, as he accumulated over 1,000 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns during his time with the team.
- Birthplace: Monaca, Pennsylvania
- Nationality: American
- Team: Buffalo Bills, Washington Football Team
- Position: Wide receiver
- 41
Lamonde Russell
Crimson Tide career: 1988-1990
Lamonde Russell's unique blend of size, strength, and quickness made him a key contributor to the Alabama Crimson Tide offense. His powerful bursts of speed and exceptional route-running skills allowed him to consistently separate from defenders and make big plays. Furthermore, Russell's reliable hands and strong work ethic contributed to him accumulating over 1,000 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns during his time at Alabama.
- 42
Wayne Wheeler
Crimson Tide career: 1971-1973
Wayne Wheeler's incredible agility, explosive playmaking ability, and strong hands made him a standout member of the Alabama Crimson Tide's potent passing attack. His precise route-running and natural ability to adjust on the fly enabled him to create mismatches against opposing defenses. As a result, Wheeler accumulated over 1,500 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns during his time at Alabama, solidifying his place among the program's all-time greats.
- 43
Kevin Turner
Age: 55Crimson Tide career: 1988-1991
Kevin Turner's unique combination of size, speed, and toughness made him a key contributor to the Alabama Crimson Tide offense. As both a wide receiver and running back, Turner's versatility and ability to create mismatches against opposing defenses made him a valuable asset. Additionally, Turner's dependable hands and relentless work ethic helped him accumulate over 1,000 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns during his tenure at Alabama.
- Birthplace: Prattville, Alabama
- Position: Running back, Fullback
- 44
Triandos Luke
Age: 42Crimson Tide career: 2000-2003
Triandos Luke's impressive quickness, outstanding athleticism, and sure hands made him a valuable asset to the Alabama Crimson Tide offense. His innate ability to create separation from defenders and find open spaces on the field made him a favorite target for quarterbacks. Moreover, Luke's unwavering commitment to excellence and strong work ethic contributed to him amassing over 1,400 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns throughout his time at Alabama.
- Birthplace: Phenix City, Alabama
- Nationality: United States of America
- Position: Wide receiver
- 45
Keith Brown
Age: 41Crimson Tide career: 2004-2007
Keith Brown's exceptional foot speed, dependable hands, and remarkable agility made him a formidable force on the field for Alabama. His ability to quickly accelerate and hit top speed in a matter of steps allowed him to blow past defenders and create game-changing plays. In addition, Brown's unwavering focus and dedication to the game helped him accumulate over 1,200 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns during his collegiate career.
