Alabama Football Strengthens Wide Receiver Corps with Addition of Isaiah Horton
In a strategic move early in the offseason, Alabama football bolstered its wide receivers room through the transfer portal by acquiring former Miami standout Isaiah Horton. His former Hurricanes teammates, who spoke to reporters in Mobile ahead of the Senior Bowl, emphasized that the Crimson Tide is significantly enhanced by Horton’s inclusion.
Wide receiver Xavier Restrepo highlighted Horton’s exceptional qualities:
“He’s a one-on-one matchup nightmare,” Restrepo stated. “Not only is he a great guy off the field, but he’s also cultivated excellent habits by watching me and Cam (Ward) over the past year. This guy is dangerous—he understands the game, has superb hands, an impressive build, and deceptively quick speed.”
Former Miami tight end Elijah Arroyo, who remains close friends with Horton, praised what the wideout brings to Tuscaloosa:
“That’s my guy,” Arroyo said. “They’re getting a hardworking player. He’s dedicated and will put in the effort required to excel on the field.”
Throughout the 2024 season, Horton caught 56 passes, amassing 616 yards and five touchdowns. The Murfreesboro, Tennessee native spent three seasons with Miami before entering the transfer portal.
Arroyo also spoke highly of Horton’s character off the field:
“He genuinely cares about other people,” Arroyo noted. “A lot of people stereotype wide receivers as selfish, but that’s not Horton at all. He cares about us and the team. He’s very selfless and always puts the team first, which is something I truly admire about him.”
Offensive lineman Jalen Rivers echoed his teammates’ sentiments regarding Horton’s abilities, describing the physical traits that make Horton an effective player:
“He’s got a long, tall frame,” Rivers said. “He consistently catches the ball and makes plays. He has that drive to get better and never wants to settle. To be great, you need that mindset, and he definitely has it.”
With Germie Bernard and Ryan Williams returning as starting receivers for the 2025 season, Horton will have ample opportunity to make a significant impact on the team.
Restrepo elaborated on what Horton needs to do to excel with the Crimson Tide next season:
“He just needs to remain consistent,” Restrepo advised. “Last year had its ups and downs, but he’s ready to make a big leap. I’ve talked to him recently, and he’s primed to shine.”
