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The Tuscaloosa News
Why did Jaylen Mbakwe move to wide receiver? What former Alabama football DB said
- Story byThe Tuscaloosa News
- Why did Jaylen Mbakwe move to wide receiver? What former Alabama football DB said
To Jaylen Mbakwe , the move from Alabama football defensive back to wide receiver was simple.
In a video for his "New Wave" podcast that normally pairs him with teammate Ryan Williams , Mbakwe, who just finished his freshman season with the Crimson Tide , explained a move that proved to be the talk of bowl season for Alabama , a move that was highlighted by his brief entry into the NCAA transfer portal.
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Mbakwe didn't take long to explain why he wanted to move from defensive back to wide receiver.
"Because I want to get the ball in my hands and showcase my talent," Mbakwe said.
After transitioning from defensive back to wide receiver before Alabama 's ReliaQuest Bowl loss to Michigan , Mbakwe did not record a reception against the Wolverines.
But Mbakwe is a receiver in whom Alabama has "trust," Crimson Tide coach Kalen DeBoer said in December, because of his experience as a receiver at Clay-Chalkville High School in Pinson, Alabama, recording 41 catches for 615 yards and nine touchdowns.
Mar 21, 2024; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Defensive back Jaylen Mbakwe catches a pass during practice at the University Alabama Thursday.
Class of 2026 wide receiver Corey Barber , who calls himself "best friends" with Mbakwe, expects the former corner to fit right into the Alabama offense with "unfair" speed.
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"That speed he has is different," Barber told the Tuscaloosa News in February. "He's a great route runner. I really feel like he could be some real help in that receiver room, you know, just being a deep threat and a guy that can change the game."
Despite the move, Mbakwe still calls Alabama "DBU."
"I'm still a DB at heart," Mbakwe said.
Why does Jaylen Mbakwe wear a 777 chain?
Mbakwe also explained a key piece of his game day outfit.
Mbakwe has posted pictures of himself wearing a "777" chain, something he has adopted as a mantra.
"777, it means jackpot, taking a risk at something," Mbakwe said. "Shoutout to my jackpot boys."
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Mbakwe added he has a "777" tattoo on his leg.
Colin Gay covers Alabama football for The Tuscaloosa News, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at cgay@gannett.com or follow him @_ColinGay on X, formerly known as Twitter.
This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Why Jaylen Mbakwe moved to wide receiver for Alabama football
