Among the many successful names produced at Alabama under Nick Saban’s microscope are Derrick Henry and Mark Ingram II, who share a heartwarming bond to this day.
The NFL stars recently sat down for a conversation on “The Triple Option” podcast and talked about how they helped each other grow while together with the Crimson Tide.
Exploring Mark Ingram II and Derrick Henry’s Relationship
At first, the former New Orleans Saints running back Ingram expressed his fondness for the Baltimore Ravens running back, Henry.
Ingram said, “I’m proud of you, dog because I remember about your rookie year. … Man, you was frustrated with just how things was going. I was like, ‘Hey, man, just control what you can control. Stay focused, stay locked in, keep working, and be ready for your opportunity.'”
Responding to Ingram’s heartfelt words, Henry said, “You know, I was thinking about that the other day. That meant a lot to me, for you to do that for me, to take your time out to give me advice, and, you know, be that big brother that I needed in those times. And I’ll never forget that and will always appreciate that. You know, I looked up to you.
“Even going to Alabama, and then you have success in the league, and you take your time out your day — you got a family to make sure my head was on straight. And still, to this day, I think about those times, man, because that’s molded me to where I am today.
To get to this point in my career and reach those milestones — and without those conversations I had with you and [Alabama running backs coach Burton] Burns and many others — I wouldn’t be where I am today. So, I appreciate it all and I’m just thankful.”
It's a brotherhood 🤞🏾 @KingHenry_2 @Wendys #WendysPartner pic.twitter.com/ZbOHJJ5pef
— Mark Ingram II (@markingramII) October 24, 2024
Where Is Ingram Now?
After a 12-season NFL career and bagging 2,125 yards receiving, 8,111 rushing yards, and 75 total touchdowns, Ingram announced his decision to retire in July 2023.
However, he wasn’t ready to get away from football just yet, so with the sad announcement of his retirement he also shared that he was joining Fox Sports as an analyst at the Big Noon Kickoff show.
While the first couple of weeks were a “little sweaty” for the former Heisman trophy winner, he seems like he’s in a groove now, flying in smoothly week after week with his analytical remarks on game days and beyond.