Former Alabama inside linebacker Reggie Ragland is expected to be taken tonight in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft. The 6-foot-1, 247-pound backer is regarded as the top-ranked player at the position in this year’s class; however, medical findings could push him down a bit.
Seven NFL teams have reported Ragland to have an enlarged aorta, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. In medical terms, an aorta is the main artery of the body. Its purpose consists of supplying oxygenated blood to the circulatory system.
Sources: #Bama LB Reggie Ragland was flagged for an enlarged aorta, which requires yearly monitoring. Some teams have pushed him down a bit
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 28, 2016
According to seven teams, #Bama LB Reggie Ragland's enlarged aorta is not expected to alter his football career. He just must watch it close
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 28, 2016
Ragland’s situation is not expected to alter or affect his professional career, yet it something that must be monitored annually. He anchored the Crimson Tide’s defensive front to a national championship in 2015, accounting for 102 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks.
Ragland finished the season as a consensus All-American and finalist for the Butkus Award.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.
