Eric LeGrand: A Real Football Hero

Mel Evans/AP Photo

The Rutgers v. West Virginia game is well underway, but the real story of that match-up involves former Rutgers defensive tackle Eric LeGrand. I've previously written about this phenomenal young man and his courage, toughness and perseverance. Eric is paralyzed as the result of a play gone wrong in 2010 - he lay motionless on the field, only to have movement from his shoulders up. Here we are, over a year later, and he now has feeling and sensation in other parts of his body, and has now vowed that he will walk again. You know what? I believe he will.

At any rate, Eric led the Scarlet Knights to the 50 yard line today, with an axe, symbolic for Rutgers' desire to "keep chopping." Not only is he leading his team out for the first time since his injury, but he's also an analyst of the Rutgers Radio Network. This kid knows no bounds - in the best way possible. It's guys like Eric LeGrand that inspire me...move me to be my best and proving why sports, and more importantly, athletes are some of the most incredible people on this planet.

Just for that...I'll be cheering for Rutgers today. Cheers to them, and to you, Eric LeGrand, and may your progress continue until we see you walk again. I believe!

To donate to the Eric LeGrand "Believe" Fund,  go here: http://www.scarletknights.com/believe