Alex Collins certainly had an untraditional National Signing Day. Wednesday, his mother stole his letter of intent to play for the University of Arkansas, forcing the top running back recruit to cancel his signing ceremony and hold off officially becoming a Razorback. Today, he was finally able to sign his letter, nearly 24 hours after he originally intended to.
Collins' mother was adamant on her son playing college football closer to home. Originally from Florida, Collins had expressed interest in in-state schools like Miami, Florida and Florida State, before giving his verbal commitment to Arkansas in a Fox Sports South broadcast Monday. His plan to make it official was halted after his mother stole his letter of intent off the fax machine and fled the school prior to Collins making his commitment official. He then canceled the signing ceremony, stating he needed more time to think over his decision.
Collins appeared today at a local sports bar with his family to sign the letter. His father, Johnny Collins, signed the letter as well, which needed the signature of a parent or legal guardian to become official since Collins is under the age of 21. His mother was not present during the informal ceremony and has hired The Cochran Firm to represent her in case of litigation.
"Alex's family has been overwhelmed with media inquiries regarding their impending decision. They want to make a clean choice that is free of any outside influences. They have requested The Cochran Firm's assistance in clearing up any false or inaccurate statements in the press," attorney Jack Paris said.
Collins' father was unaware of any of the drama that occurred on Wednesday with his son. He said he had not heard of the incident until Alex called him and said his mother was refusing to sign the letter. Johnny Collins said he supports his son and his decision to play at Arkansas.
Collins is an ESPN 150 running back. At 5-foot-11, 200 pounds, he ranked 57th by ESPN in overall recruits. He ran for 1,276 yards and 14 touchdowns in his senior season at South Plantation High School.
