Just one week after helping the University of Alabama secure its 17th national championship in school history, defensive end Raekwon Davis received a special gift on Monday from his hometown of Meridian, Miss.
Percy Bland, who has served as mayor of Meridian since 2013, presented Davis with a key to the city in celebration of his leadership in the community.
https://twitter.com/meridianftball/status/953040431272595458
Davis, a 6-foot-8, 306-pound force, was one of the nation’s top defensive line prospect upon signing in the Crimson Tide’s 2016 class. He had a monster sophomore season as he totaled 69 tackles (second on team), 10 tackles for loss (second on team) and a team-high 8.5 sacks.
The former four-star would also add in two quarterback hurries and an interception off University of Georgia quarterback Jake Fromm in the College Football Playoff National Championship. While defensive injuries hit Alabama all season, Davis was a factor in keeping the team at No. 1 in the nation in rushing defense (94.7 ypg) and total defense (260.4 ypg).
He was dominant in the playoff, collecting 10 tackles, three tackles for loss, two sacks and one interception. Davis assisted the Tide in limiting Clemson to 64 yards rushing, along with generating a pair of picks off Kelly Bryant. Junior defensive lineman Da’Ron Payne has declared for the NFL Draft after turning in a strong campaign; however, Davis’ return next fall could position him for a higher status – especially after what scouts saw from him versus good teams.
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
