Xavier McKinney | New York Giants
Xavier McKinney | New York Giants
New York Giants defensive back Xavier McKinney wanted to honor someone during an important game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Field.
McKinney, who played at Roswell High, paid tribute to Robbie Roper, a Roswell High quarterback who died suddenly from complications during a surgical procedure on his shoulder. Fox 5 Atlanta reported. McKinney wore cleats the messages "RIP ROBBIE ROPER" and "FOREVER THE GOAT" written on them.
McKinney for the University of Alabama following his time at Roswell, Fox 5 Atlanta reported.
Roper, 18, was a 6-foot-4-inch, 215-pound dual threat who was being highly sought after by college football teams, Fox 5 Atlanta reported. He seemed headed toward a promising career until tragedy struck, leaving his entire community in shock.
"Losing a student is always tough, especially as a coach, you have a really close relationship with all you players especially your quarterbacks," second-year Roswell Coach Chris Prewett told Fox 5 Atlanta.
During his last game, Roper scored a last-second touchdown, winning a playoff match against North Cobb, Fox 5 Atlanta reported. His classmates and family gathered for a vigil in his honor hours following news of his death.
He had yet to commit to a college team, but he drew interest from Morehead State, Morgan State, Western Carolina, Florida, Ole Miss, Pittsburgh, Connecticut, Texas Christian, Michigan and North Carolina, Fox 5 Atlanta reported.
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