My dad always told me when I was little … “Don’t work to just be the guy in the jersey on Sundays. Work to be the guy in the nice suit that’s in the suite of the stadium making all the decisions.”

I had not thought about that message much until Sunday, Oct. 25, 2015. The day after my neck injury during my freshman season.

I never thought twice about playing again following my freshman year. The University of Arkansas medical staff and others I spoke to provided me all the information I needed to be fully confident in my decision to return to the field. I gained a lot from playing again during my sophomore season. Things that no one can ever take away from me. I led the SEC regular season in rushing in my first season as a starter. I threw a touchdown pass (thanks Coach Enos). I grew with my teammates. I stayed healthy. I proved to myself that I could do it at the highest level in the SEC.

Spring ball can be a grind. The 15 practices challenge you mentally and physically, but the opportunity to get better each day is something I’ve learned to never take for granted. This spring ball was extra special to me. I was getting to share the final weekend with my mom, dad, brother and sister.

For the 15th time this spring I suited up. I prayed in my locker and took the field by double-taping my chest twice before pointing to the sky.