With nearly 2,000 yards receiving, 17 touchdowns and over 700 return yards in just 2.5 seasons in Tuscaloosa, Jaylen Waddle was one of the most exciting players of the Nick Saban era.

Jaylen Waddle's TL highlights from the day of his contract extension.pic.twitter.com/BuYzCk4vTU https://t.co/rGvJQbCeaP

— David Furones (@DavidFurones_) May 30, 2024

In 2020, Waddle was on track to have the best season of his collegiate career, but an ankle injury slowed his momentum and led to the Miami Dolphins selecting Waddle with the sixth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.

Since then, Waddle has starred in Miami alongside former quarterback and fellow Alabama legend Tua Tagovailoa.

Waddle has recorded over 1,000 yards receiving and 18 touchdowns in each of his first three seasons in the NFL and his production seems to improve each season.

The Dolphins rewarded Waddle's performance on Thursday by giving the star receiver a contract extension for three more seasons worth $84.75 million, including $76 million guaranteed, making him one of the five highest-paid receivers in the league.

Michael Browner is a senior sports analyst and contributor to Yellow Hammer News. You can follow him on Twitter. translation: Listen to him weekdays from 6-9am on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5. Available online for free.