Alabama Honors University's First Black Football Players

Photo: Alabama Athletics

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) — John Mitchell (above right) and Wilbur Jackson (above left) already had their place in Alabama football history.

Now, the Crimson Tide's first Black players also share a prominent spot outside Bryant-Denny stadium.

The university unveiled a plaque honoring Jackson and Mitchell Saturday in a ceremony before the current team's end-of-spring A-Day game, more than 50 years after they broke the color barrier.

“It was a moment I will never forget,” said Mitchell, who had become emotional when he spoke at the ceremony. “It was very touching. You grow up a little Black kid from south Alabama and these are things you never dream of. ”

The two 70-year-olds were also honored at halftime. Read more.