Ryan Anderson was one of the most aggressive linebackers in Alabama football history in the Nick Saban era.
The talented Alabama native chose the Crimson Tide over several schools, including Tennessee and Kentucky of the Southeastern Conference in the 2012 recruiting class. A four-star prospect, Anderson was a two-time BCS National Champion in 2012 and 2015. He also made first-team All-SEC in 2016 for his efforts as an elite edge-rushing sacks specialist. His two most dominant seasons came in 2015 and 2016 for the Tide.
Anderson combined for 98 tackles, 30.5 tackles for loss, 15 sacks, 20 quarterback hurries, six forced fumbles, two fumble returns, and an interception returned for a touchdown.
He anchored a captivating 2016 defense 118 tackles for loss, 54 sacks, 55 breakups, 80 quarterback hurries, 17 forced fumbles, three blocked kicks/punts, eight fumble returns, 16 interceptions, and 11 touchdowns.
Anderson was a four-time SEC Champion in 2012, 2014, 2015, and 2016.
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He played in the National Football League for six seasons with the Washington Redskins/Football Team, New York Giants, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Anderson was a dominant player at Daphne (Ala.) High School, so it was good to see him give back to a high school program near his area.
He spoke to players at Baldwin County High School on Sunday to wrap up its PROWL series.
Thanks for having me! #Amorfati https://t.co/NCKkMbnFck
— Ryan Anderson (@_ryananderson22) May 20, 2024
Anderson was a force under Saban, but he remembered one of Saban’s biggest lessons.
People may not remember what you did on the field, but they will remember how you impacted them.
Anderson impacted the youth at BCHS for the better.
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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
