Alabama freshman Tony Mitchell issued his first public comments following his March arrest during an appearance at the Southen Xpress banquet last week.
When speaking Mitchell appeared to show accountability for his actions and feared his football career would be over after being arrested for possession of marijuana with intent to sell.
“I didn’t know if I’d be able to play football again, but I continued to work out and stay close with the Lord and those who love me unconditionally,” Mitchell said. “During those times, it helped me to keep my mind off it. But when I was by myself looking at social media, what everybody had to say about it, it just felt like it happened again. I didn’t sleep that night.”
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Mitchell also shared a message to the up-and-coming players in attendance about the importance of keeping a tight circle and trusting in each one’s faith.
“To all athletes here tonight, just keep pursuing your dreams,” Mitchell said. “God got a designated path for you and all your talents are from the Lord. Do not let anyone or anything distract you from your purpose and keep a small circle of people that truly love and care about you and always work hard because it’ll pay off in the end.”
This message warranted a shout-out from former Alabama defensive back and current director of player development, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix who took to social media to share his thoughts on Mitchell’s speech.
Proud of you Tony. I can’t think of a student athelte coach Saban has coach that he gives up on. Always finds a solution to help players get the help they need to be successful.
❤️🐘#teaching #moment #letswork https://t.co/wfzLE7sMpJ— Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (@haha_cd6) June 5, 2023
Mitchell was reinstated with the team last week and is expected to participate in the Crimson Tide’s summer workouts.
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Patrick Dowd is a Reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can follow him on Twitter, via Pat_Dowd77
