Alabama “Gives the Nod” to Rico Scott for Wide Receiver Three on Saturday

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- Alabama's wide receiver three battle appears to be settled, as head coach Kalen DeBoer named Rico Scott the starter for Saturday's home opener against the East Carolina Pirates.

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"Rico is the guy that's been around a little bit longer, probably give the nod to him," DeBoer said during the SEC Coaches Call on Wednesday morning.

With Scott getting the starting nod, Alabama still plans to rotate at wide receiver based on personnel packages, with Derek Meadows' big frame providing opportunities for Alabama this season.

Scott started Alabama's season-opening loss to Florida State last season, catching two passes for 19 yards and a touchdown. He ended the 2025 season with 11 receptions for 98 yards and two scores, with the second being an 11-yard score against Tennessee in Alabama's 37-20 victory over the Volunteers.

"They're both going to be integral parts," DeBoer said of Scott and Meadows. "They're both going to be in the mix, having an impact."

DeBoer also mentioned Rico Scott as someone who will be a part of the rotation at kick returner alongside Ryan Coleman-Williams, Dijon Lee, and freshman Trae'shawn Brown, saying those four are "guys you want to have touch the football."

Alabama is scheduled to open the 2026 season hosting the East Carolina Pirates on Saturday, September 5. Kickoff is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. CT.

Wyatt Fulton is the Tide 100.9 DME and Brand Manager, primarily covering Alabama Crimson Tide football and men's basketball. For more Crimson Tide coverage, follow Wyatt on X (Formerly known as Twitter) at @FultonW_.