Alabama Lineman Leaving For NFL

Alabama Crimson Tide Crimson Tide left tackle Andre Smith is leaving Tuscaloosa..

by WKRG Staff

Published: Sat, January 03, 2009 - 9:54 pm CST Last Updated: Sat, January 03, 2009 - 9:57 pm CST

ANDRE SMITH – TO THE NFL:
Through much prayer and after counseling with his parents and his coach, University of Alabama offensive lineman and All-American Andre Smith today said he has decided to forego his last year of collegiate football eligibility.

The Outland Trophy winner said, “I value deeply the opportunity I’ve had to play for such a prestigious program and to have the support of such a prolific coach in Nick Saban. After much consideration, I am proud to announce my intent to become eligible for the next National Football League draft. Alabama football will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Coach Nick Saban suspended Smith for Friday night's
Sugar Bowl against No. 7 Utah after alleged dealings with a sports
agent.

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Bad Day Kitty Says:

Sun, Jan 04, 2009 at 10:56 pm

Nothing wrong with seeking advancement and striving for the “big bucks”, just seems that it could all have waited until after the weekend. Three or four days could have made a big difference in the outcome of the Sugar Bowl and how it affected his “former” teammates without negatively affecting him and his dreams. Sure hope it proves to be a worthwhile venture and he won’t ever have to fall back on his education for a living!

SamRocks Says:

Sun, Jan 04, 2009 at 3:45 pm

Andre has several years in his life to play in the NFL. He could’ve waited until he graduated with a degree to fall back on in case of early injury. I can’t help but feel it was a quick money ploy that left his team hanging and contributed largely in the loss of the Sugar Bowl. Way to go out, Andre. You will be remembered. That’s the “TEAM SPIRIT”!