Before he sets foot on the University of Alabama campus in the fall, Henry Ruggs III ends his high school career with a gold medal. The four-star athlete and elite wide receiver prospect took home the Class 7A state championship in track on Saturday for Robert E. Lee High School in Montgomery, Ala. During last week’s meet in Gulf Shores, he posted a time of 10.58 seconds in the 100-meter dash – earning him a state record.
Couldn't think of a better way to end my High School athletic career 🥉🥇 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/mdnBvP5RxC
— HJR III™💎 (@__RUGGS) May 6, 2017
He joins Shaun Dion Hamilton and Mack Wilson as the third Montgomery produced that has coach Nick Saban and his staff has recruited to the Capstone. With the Crimson Tide having Calvin Ridley, Robert Foster, Cam Sims, Jerry Jeudy, T.J. Simmons and others on its roster, fans may see Ruggs redshirt his freshman year.
However, in college football, anything can happen.
Listed at 6-feet, 175 pounds, Ruggs was named the Class 7A Back of the Year and was an All-State selection via Alabama Sports Writers Association. He served at quarterback, running back, wide receiver and return specialist during his tenure. Saban has always been a stickler for perfection on special teams, so more than likely Ruggs will get his chance to shine there.
Stephen M. Smith is a managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
