Alabama's new co-offensive coordinator and receivers coach, JaMarcus Shephard, is instilling a "takers" mentality in his players, emphasizing an aggressive approach over the traditional passive perception of "receivers." Shephard, drawing from his own blue-collar background as a DePauw University receiver, aims to shape his players with a similar aggressive mindset. He specifically highlights transfer receiver Germie Bernard as a prime example of a "pure receiver" who embodies this hard-nosed approach. The upcoming spring practices will provide the first chance to witness Shephard and Bernard's impact on the Alabama Crimson Tide.

By the Numbers
  • JaMarcus Shephard finished his playing career at Division III DePauw University as third on the team’s all-time list for career all-purpose yards.
  • Germie Bernard recorded 34 receptions for 419 yards and two touchdowns, along with 43 yards and two more scores on the ground last season at Washington.
State of Play
  • Alabama will hold its first of 15 spring practices next Monday.
  • Fans will have the opportunity to witness Shephard and Bernard in action on April 13 during Alabama's annual A-Day game inside Bryant-Denny Stadium.
Bottom Line

JaMarcus Shephard is revolutionizing the traditional role of a receiver, emphasizing a "takers" mindset, with Germie Bernard standing as a prime example of this aggressive approach. The upcoming spring practices and A-Day game will offer a glimpse into the impact of this new mentality on the Crimson Tide's receiving corps.