On October 16th, 2010, Eric LeGrand and his teammates took the field for Rutgers University to face Army. LeGrand took his spot in the opening kick off formation like how he usually would for any kickoff, but little did he know what was to come in the upcoming seconds. The kicker started running up to the ball and kicked it down the field. LeGrand sprinted down the field in coverage as he normally would. He proceeded to find a hole between the blockers and ended up in a perfect position to make a tackle on the returner.

He then smacked his helmet into the ball carrier and makes the tackle. But something wasn’t right. LeGrand wasn’t getting up and wasn't moving any of his extremities. What we witnessed was one of the most gruesome injuries in football history. LeGrand ended up fracturing his C3 and C4 cervical vertebrae, resulting in his permanent paralysis from the neck down.

Usually an injury like this would bring an individual down, damage their self esteem, and drastically change their life. However, this didn’t stop LeGrand from fighting and continuing to live his life as he normally would. Miraculously, in less than 3 months, Eric LeGrand regained movement in his shoulders and began feeling sensations throughout his body. By simply making the choice to fight and try to over come a life-threatening injury, LeGrand provided inspiration to many people all over the country. Originally, LeGrand had a 0-5% chance of ever walking again. His chances have dramatically gone up as a result of the speed at which he’s recovering.

LeGrand’s ultimate goal in life was to play in the NFL, and his dream came true on May 2, 2012. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed Eric LeGrand to a 1-day contract in an act of symbolism. Eric’s courage and bravery to make the most out of a life threatening injury is truly incredible. To see him smiling, achieving his goals, and enjoying life just like any able human being is what makes this story inspiring. Eric LeGrand is a sports hero who should never be forgotten.