His announcement on Monday brought everyone inside the Mal Moore Athletic Facility — including Alabama’s athletic director, Greg Byrne. He could not miss the decision of one of the most iconic figures for Crimson Tide football.
It was a tough choice for Tua Tagovailoa; however, it was one he had to make. The junior quarterback chose to declare for the NFL Draft and with tears in his eyes, everyone understood how much he really loves Tuscaloosa, Ala.
RELATED: Tua Tagovailoa received an outpouring of fan mail in his departure that required a dolly cart
For someone who will experience his fourth football season next fall, Byrne witnessed Tagovailoa rescue the team to a national championship, be a runner-up for the Heisman Trophy, set numerous school records and win a host of individual accolades.
Through it all, the main thing Byrne loves about the native Hawaiian is his character.
Whether it was his coaches, teammates or people in the community, no one felt like a stranger around the former five-star.
His genuine smile had people leave his presence better than when they entered it.
He knows the quarterback room is in good hands, but Byrne could not pass up the chance of getting a photo with Tagovailoa and paying homage to him.
As AD, you want to get to know as many of your 650 SAs as possible, but it is often challenging because of the sheer #’s.
However, @Tuaamann has been 1 of the most impactful I’ve been around both on & off the field. We look forward to watching his continued success. #RollTide ? pic.twitter.com/9zEphlV92J
— Greg Byrne (@Greg_Byrne) January 6, 2020
As he continues through his rehab and prepares for the next chapter of his life, he will always have the support of Alabama fans.
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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.
