Jaylen Mbakwe, a highly-touted freshman defensive back for Alabama, has quickly made his presence felt in his debut season with the Crimson Tide.
A former five-star recruit from Pinson, Alabama, Mbakwe has played in the team’s first three games, contributing on defense and serving as the primary punt returner after Cole Adams suffered an upper-body injury. His performances have shown promise, with Mbakwe stepping up whenever called upon.
Speaking to the media after Friday’s practice, Mbakwe shared his thoughts on transitioning to college football.
“Basically, I’m just playing wherever they need me,” he said. “I feel comfortable wherever. Wherever the coaches tell me to play at, that’s where I’m gonna play and do my job to the best of my abilities. Not getting a lot of reps, but just being able to watch the guys in front of me, knowing I’m a big part of that.”
He also credited veteran teammates like Domani Jackson, Malachi Moore, and Keon Sabb for helping him adjust.
“Just the recognition of the game, knowing what I’m getting, how to slow people down—that’s been the biggest thing,” Mbakwe said.
His humble attitude and determination suggest he has a bright future ahead in Tuscaloosa.
