Eric LeGrand, a disabled Rutgers University player, has been signed by NFL side Tampa Bay Buccaneers in an extraordinary move for American football.
On October 16, 2010, LeGrand was paralysed from the neck down after making a tackle on special teams.
But remarkably, he will become part of an NFL roster. He has joined his former coach Greg Schiano at the Buccaneers to help bring attention to the issue of spinal cord injuries, as the pair endeavour to raise money to help find a cure.
LeGrand was coy regarding rumours on Tuesday:
“Leading up to the draft, I couldn’t help but think that this should’ve been Eric’s draft class,” Schiano said.
“This small gesture is the least we could do to recognize his character, spirit, and perseverance. The way Eric lives his life epitomizes what we are looking for in Buccaneer Men."
LeGrand is still working on his degree at Rutgers and is hopeful of having a career as a broadcaster.
The esteemed Sports Illustrated magazine announced LeGrand's return to the football field as their moment of the year, as voted for by its readers. LeGrand made the cover as a consequence of the accolade.
