WATCH: Landon Collins fulfills promise he made to Alabama head coach Nick Saban
Landon Collins kept his promise to Nick Saban, finishing his degree at the University of Alabama. Originally, Collins left when the NFL came calling, but the former Alabama defensive stand-out went ensured he got his diploma.
In a video posted by Alabama Football, Collins detailed his promise to the Crimson Tide coach, and how happy he is to have the accomplishment under his belt.
Collins was the 33rd overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft by the New York Giants, and shined immediately in his transition to the NFL. Collins was named to the Pro Football Writer’s Association All-Rookie team in his inaugural pro season and earned three Pro-Bowl nods in New York.
In 2019, Collins was an anchor on the young, ascending Washington defensive unit. He started 15 games, recording 117 tackles, the most during his NFL career. The safety added four pass deflections, a sack and a forced fumble that year.
While Landon Collins is currently a free agent, the former Alabama safety hasn’t let that stop him from accomplishing his goals. Time will tell where he plays next season, but Collins can smile every time he sees his diploma hanging up on his wall.
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Moreover, Washington inked Collins to a huge contract when he hit free agency in 2019. After spending the first four seasons of his career terrorizing the Commanders as a member of the New York Giants, the franchise jumped at the opportunity to steal the safety away from their NFC East rival. However, Collins never reached the All-Pro level he was play at in New York with Washington.
Additionally, injuries became the story of the former Alabama star’s time with the Commanders. Collins never played a full season with the franchise, and his role was severely diminished as time went on. Now, Washington is cutting their losses.
Some have hypothesized that the style the three-time Pro Bowler plays is better suited at the linebacker position. If a savvy defensive coordinator gets his hands on Collins, perhaps the former Alabama star can rejuvenate his NFL career.
Nevertheless, Landon Collins is a free agent for the second time in his NFL career. While his contract won’t exceed the one Washington handed him, the former All Pro will be looking to become a household name once again at his next stop.