History of Jaylen Waddle in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 26, 2026

Jaylen Waddle is an American professional football wide receiver currently playing for the Denver Broncos in the NFL. He was drafted sixth overall by the Miami Dolphins in the 2021 NFL Draft after a successful college football career with the Alabama Crimson Tide. Waddle is known for his speed, agility, and playmaking ability as a receiver.

Sections (1)

Full Timeline

November 25, 1998: Jaylen Waddle's Birth

On November 25, 1998, Jaylen Waddle was born. He is now an American professional football wide receiver.

2014: High School Championship Win

In 2014, as a sophomore at Episcopal High School, Jaylen Waddle won a Southwest Preparatory Conference championship game.

September 29, 2018: Outstanding Performance Against Louisiana

On September 29, 2018, Jaylen Waddle had a standout performance against Louisiana with three receptions for 138 yards and two receiving touchdowns, as well as a 63-yard punt return for a touchdown.

2018: College Commitment

In 2018, Jaylen Waddle committed to play college football at the University of Alabama, choosing the Crimson Tide over several other universities. This decision was made on National Signing Day of 2018.

2019: All-SEC Honors and NCAA Leadership

In 2019, Jaylen Waddle was named first-team All-SEC as a return specialist and SEC Special Teams Player of the Year. He also led the NCAA in both punt return yards (487) and average punt return yards (24.4).

2020: Exceptional Performances and Injury

During the 2020 season, Jaylen Waddle had at least 120 receiving yards in each of his first four games. However, on October 24, 2020, he broke his right ankle during a game against Tennessee. He did return for the National Championship game against Ohio State.

January 14, 2021: NFL Draft Announcement

On January 14, 2021, Jaylen Waddle announced his decision to forgo his senior season and enter the 2021 NFL draft.

May 14, 2021: Signing with the Miami Dolphins

On May 14, 2021, Jaylen Waddle signed a $27.1 million deal with the Miami Dolphins, reuniting him with his college quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.

September 12, 2021: First NFL Game and Touchdown

On September 12, 2021, Jaylen Waddle played his first NFL game against the New England Patriots, catching 4 of 6 targets for 61 yards and his first NFL touchdown in the 17-16 win.