Russellville player signs with University of North Alabama to continue football career

Russellville High School football standout Neyland Baker recently signed with the University of North Alabama and the offensive lineman was honored during a signing celebration on Dec. 16.

Baker has been a top starter as a member of the Golden Tigers and a leader on Russellville teams that have won multiple football region titles. The senior is a two-sport athlete at RHS and is a key contributor on the baseball field as well as the gridiron. Baker received the rare honor of being named to the AHSAA North-South team in both sports. His North football squad defeated the South by a 45-24 score on Dec. 13 at Hancock Whitney Stadium in Mobile.

“Neyland really embodies the student-athlete that we strive to have here at Russellville,” RHS head football coach Dustin Goodwin said. “He’s a multi-sport guy, does well in the classroom and hasn’t been in any trouble off the field. He does everything he can to help lead his teammates and works really hard at what he’s doing. We couldn’t be happier, and we know he’s going to do great things and has a bright future ahead of him.”

The celebration was an opportunity for Baker to be surrounded by family, friends, teammates, teachers and coaches. “It’s a blessing and a huge step in my life,” Baker said. “I’m excited for it and it’s a big deal for me.”

Playing for the Lions will give Baker the opportunity to take the field against tough NCAA competition. “I’m looking forward to traveling, going to see new places and playing football, the game that I love,” he said.

Before he heads to the college campus at UNA, Baker has another season of baseball to look forward to at RHS. “He’s been a leader for us on the field statistically and from a player-to-player standpoint,” Russellville baseball head coach Jess Smith said. As the baseball season approaches, Baker will be working hard to improve and will be right in the middle of the action as the Golden Tigers chase the championship.