2021 NFL Draft: WR Jaylen Waddle has sky-high upside but needs experience

Verdict

The jury should remain out on Waddle until he plays a high number of starter snaps for Alabama, which he should do if the SEC goes ahead with its 2020 season as planned.

What is not in question, however, is that he is a prospect with a sky-high ceiling. He can be a legitimate deep threat at the next level and his skills in the open field should see him make a living as a dynamic returner in the pros as well.

His physical gifts mean Waddle can be a threat from any position on the offensive formation while he has upside in the screen game that few possess.

With the route-running ability he has flashed in creating separation with his footwork and his body, along with what he has shown at the catch point, Waddle appears to have the potential to develop a polished and well-rounded skill set.

The consistency he displays in those areas and what he does against press coverage in 2020 will determine whether he has the high floor to go with the high ceiling.

On current evidence, it would be difficult to select Waddle ahead of Alabama teammate DeVonta Smith, who outperformed first-round picks Henry Ruggs III and Jerry Jeudy last season.

But that could soon change if Waddle gets the opportunities he requires and takes advantage of them in what looks likely to be his only season as a starter for Alabama.