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Alabama may have left Knoxville, Tennessee with a win, but they also lost one of the most important pieces to their infamously dangerous offense. Jaylen Waddle suffered a broken ankle while returning the kickoff to start the game. He underwent surgery and will miss the remainder of the 2020 college football season.
Nick Saban was emotional in announcing Waddle’s injury status during his interview heading into the lockerroom during halftime.
Waddle has since undergone surgery, according to Saban, and it was succesful.
“I talked to him after the game. They did the surgery that night. He’s been in the hospital since. He’s been pretty groggy. He was going to see me today but he just got back. Surgery was very very successful, long-term prognosis is very good,” Saban said during today’s press conference.
Waddle will be a big loss for the Crimson Tide. Until his injury, the junior led the team in receiving yards and was tied for the most receiciving touchdowns at four.
It has been reported that it will take Waddle roughly eight weeks before he can begin heavy rehab.
There’s a strong possibility that Waddle will choose to enter the 2021 NFL draft and forego his senior year of eligibility. He is currently projected to be an early first round selection, but the injury may change his potential position depending on how the rest of the college football season shakes out.
Roll Tide Wire will keep you updated on all things Alabama football and the health of Jaylen Waddle as more information becomes available.