Photo via Eric LeGrand
Former Rutgers defensive lineman Eric LeGrand was paralyzed from the waist down during a game in October of 2010 but he has never let that stop him from reaching his dreams. LeGrand’s former college coach Greg Schiano took over the head coaching gig with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and signed LeGrand to a contract to help him achieve his NFL dream.
LeGrand is an inspiration to us all and he was awarded the Jimmy V Perseverance Award at the 2012 ESPY’s and reminded us all why he is such a great young man.
Today, LeGrand announced his official retirement from the NFL and he did so with class — like everything else in his playing career. LeGrand released this statement:
“I am retiring as a Buccaneer player today. When I signed I knew I was not going to keep the roster spot forever. My team reports to camp today and I want them to go in with full power of all 90 man. Making it to the NFL was my dream. But now I want to see my team as strong as possible at the start of Training Camp. I am still a Buccaneer for life”
Even though LeGrand never graced an NFL field in his Buccaneers uniform, he will always make an impact on the fans and will likely have a role within the organization. If you missed his incredible speech during the ESPY’s, check it out:
It’s a shame there aren’t more athletes out there that send the right message like LeGrand. He is a true role model and an inspiration to us all.
