Jaylen Waddle, born on November 25, 1998, in Houston, Texas, is a professional football player currently playing as a wide receiver for the Miami Dolphins of the National Football League (NFL). Known for his exceptional speed and agility, Waddle has quickly become one of the league's most exciting and dynamic players.
Waddle first gained national attention at Episcopal High School in Bellaire, Texas, where he excelled as a wide receiver and earned a spot in the U.S. Army All-American Game. He committed to the University of Alabama, where he had a standout college career. As a freshman in 2018, Waddle was named the SEC Freshman of the Year, and he continued to impress throughout his time with the Crimson Tide, earning multiple accolades, including SEC Special Teams Player of the Year in 2019.
In the 2021 NFL Draft, Waddle was selected sixth overall by the Miami Dolphins, reuniting him with his college quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa. Waddle made an immediate impact in his rookie season, setting the NFL rookie record for receptions in a season with 104 and earning a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team. His first season performance included 1,015 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns.
Waddle's success continued in subsequent seasons, with career highlights including a personal best of 1,356 receiving yards in 2022 and leading the league with 18.1 yards per catch. Despite a concussion in 2023, he managed to record his third consecutive 1,000-yard season.
In May 2024, Waddle secured a three-year, $84.75 million contract extension with the Dolphins, solidifying his status as one of the highest-paid wide receivers in the NFL. This extension underscores his value to the team and his continued potential for growth in the league.
