Alabama’s DeVonta Smith is only the third winner of the Heisman Trophy in the past 20 years who has not played as a defender.
It only makes sense that the other two – also former Alabama players – welcome the Crimson Tide receiver to the exclusive club.
Former Alabama stars Mark Ingram (2009) and Derrick Henry (2015) posted messages to Smith about the achievement.
“Although winning Heisman is college football’s greatest honor, this year means something more,” said Ingram in a video posted on social media. In one of the toughest years in college football, you have incorporated the character and perseverance expected from a candidate for the Heisman Trophy.
“It is an honor to welcome not only the Heisman fraternity, but also the growing Alabama Heisman family. Congratulations and Roll Tide. ”
Smith finished with 447 votes for first place and 1,856 points to easily beat Trevor Lawrence of Clemson (222, 1,187), Alabama team mate Mac Jones (138, 1,130) and Kyle Trask of Florida (61, 737).
Crimson Tide Najee Harris’ running back finished fifth in the vote, making No. 1 Alabama the second team in Heisman’s 85-year history to have three of the top five voters.
Alabama faces No. 3 Ohio State on January 11 in the College Football Playoff title game in Miami Gardens, Florida.
Other former Alabama players also celebrated the announcement.