To say the least, drops were an issue for Alabama football last season. The ability of the Crimson Tide’s pass-catchers to do just that has been a point of anxiety for fans throughout preseason camp.

Even Nick Saban has said he wants the wide receivers group to be more consistent. However, after his team’s second camp scrimmage Saturday, Saban said the wideouts were looking better.

“I think our receivers have really improved,” Saban said. “I think they played faster (today). They’re playing with more confidence. I think we’ve had less drops, but obviously the goal is you never want to have any drops. We’re going to continue to work on that. But I think they’ve made improvement.”

The Crimson Tide receivers are working to figure out their issues at the same time the team is having an extended quarterback competition. With a new offensive coordinator in Tommy Rees onboard as well, what the passing offense will look like in 2023 is still to be seen.

But Saturday, Saban said he was optimistic about where that facet of Alabama’s game will be.

“I think we’ve made improvement in the passing game. I think we’re more consistent in what we’re doing and I think we’re more confident. I think that’s helpful for the quarterbacks as well as the confidence of the receivers.”

The Alabama receiving core returns some of its veteran players, including Jermaine Burton and Ja’Corey Brooks. The Tide also has some new faces looking to contribute, one of which is junior college transfer Malik Benson.

Saban said Saturday that Benson has improved throughout camp.

“He’s done a nice job,” Saban said. ” He’s a lot more confident, playing faster, catching the ball well. I think he’s a guy that can really make a contribution for us this year.”

Alabama will continue preseason camp through Aug. 26. The Crimson Tide opens the season Sept. 2 against Middle Tennessee State.

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