Reggie Ragland earned a reputation for being a no-nonsense, big-hitting linebacker during his time at the University of Alabama. During his senior season, Ragland racked up 102 tackles on his way to All-American honors and a College Football Playoff National Championship. As a result, he’ll be suiting up for the NFL’s Buffalo Bills next season.
But while the Crimson Tide engulfed countless opponents during Ragland’s time in Tuscaloosa, the star linebacker allowed himself to be immersed beneath a different kind of Tide this past Sunday.
Ragland announced on Twitter that he committed his life to Jesus and gotten baptized.
“Do you believe that Jesus died for your sins and rose again on the third day?” The pastor can be heard asking Ragland in a video he posted on Twitter.
“I do,” he replied.
I'm happy I made the best decision of my life by getting baptized this morning!!! He not done with me yet. pic.twitter.com/qBzo4CE3N1
— ReggieRagland(bama) (@reggieragland) June 26, 2016
Fans responded with as much — and in some cases more — excitement than when the Tide defeated Clemson 45-40 to secure the team’s sixteenth national championship.
@reggieragland You just joined the BEST TEAM you will ever be on, brother! Now go be a pro bowler for HIM!
— Jason Quick (@jquickBJHS) June 27, 2016
@reggieragland Best play you will ever make!
— b blanks (@pavbama) June 26, 2016
@reggieragland Amen Reggie. So happy for you and the man you have become. Be the example for all the young people out there. God Bless You!
— Grant Lee (@GrantLee2) June 27, 2016
@reggieragland hard to believe something better than a National Championship but I think you have topper there Reggie! Congrats
— J. Derrick Bryant (@JDomin8r) June 29, 2016
@reggieragland I am so proud! To God be the glory!
— Denise Adcock (@denise_adcock) June 27, 2016
@reggieragland AMEN!!! You're just getting started. Go make an difference in this world Reggie!
— David Smith (@DavidS81189) June 26, 2016
@reggieragland that's awesome! Best decision you'll ever make is following Jesus!
— Grantkeel (@grant_keel) June 26, 2016
@reggieragland You inspre me Reggie. I was baptized as a child but i no longer attend my childhood family church. I think it's time.
— Deatrea Richards (@MrsDeRichards) June 27, 2016
Ragland’s NFL career will begin when the Bills take on the Indianapolis Colts in Week 1 of the 2016 pre-season August 11.
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