Running back Alex Collins is on his way to play college football at the University of Arkansas after his mother refused to sign his national letter of intent on Wednesday, but his father, Johnny Collins, did on Thursday.
On Wednesday several media outlets reported that Collins’ mother, Andrea McDonald, showed up to her sons’ planned signing day ceremony, but left with the paperwork because she did not want her son to go so far away from home and become a Razorback. She preferred that Collins attend the University of Miami, which would be closer to their South Florida home. But Collins defended his mother on Thursday.
“It’s not like she took the papers and ran,” Collins said to CBSSports.com. “But we talked about it, and it got cut short before I had the chance to tell her how I really feel. It was just her telling me how she feels and I wasn’t able to respond, so we kind of finished that conversation after everything was over, and now I’m making my decision today.”
Collins signed the letter at Bokamper’s sports bar in Plantation, Fla. with his father, aunt and grandmother by his side. The only person missing was his mother. Collins explained that she had work obligations at time of his signing.
“I’m happy. I’m excited. I’m glad it’s over,” Collins said after signing. “I didn’t think about going anywhere else because I had my mind set.”
Complicating matters a tad bit: His mother hired attorney Jack Paris of The Cochran Firm.
“Alex’s family has been overwhelmed with media inquiries regarding their impending decision,” Paris said in a statement. “They want to make a clean choice that is free of any outside influences. This is a very tough decision and they are weighing their options very carefully. In the meantime, they have requested The Cochran Firm’s assistance in clearing up any false or inaccurate statements in the press.”
Alex reiterated that he does not hold any animosity against his mother because she was looking out for his best interest.
Johnny Collins said that he was unaware of Wednesday’s incident involving his son, until Alex called him Wednesday night.
“I did not know what was going on and Alex called and said his mother wouldn’t sign the paper,” Johnny Collins said. “I am going to support my son in any decision.”
Alex Collins, who is ranked 57th by ESPN, chose the Razorbacks over Florida, Wisconsin, Florida State and Miami. He had verbally committed to Miami last year, but opened his recruitment back up in November. Now he is ready to put all this controversy behind him.
“Arkansas is my new home, and I’m just ready to get started with my career there,” Collins said. “It’s a happy day for me, and I’m just excited about my future.”
Collins, 5-feet-11 and 207 pounds, ran for 1,276 yards and 14 touchdowns at South Plantation High School during his senior season.
Collins is hopeful that he can make an immediate impact with his running attack at Arkansas, but his mother may still take legal action to prevent him from attending the school.
