NFF National Scholar-Athletes
Ezra Gray, RB – Alabama State University
4.00 GPA – Computer Information Systems
Head Coach: Donald Hill-Eley | Athletics Director: Jennifer Lynne Williams
Faculty Athletics Representatives: Dr. Carmela Drake
An all-conference running back who earned his degree with a perfect 4.00 GPA, Ezra Gray has taken full advantage of his time on and off the gridiron at Alabama State. The Lynn Haven, Florida, native becomes the Hornets' second NFF National Scholar-Athlete, and the program's first in almost 30 years.
A 2019 First Team Academic All-American, Gray graduated summa cum laude with a degree in computer information systems in May 2020. The 2019 FCS ADA Scholar-Athlete of the Year was also a First Team Academic All-District selection, an FCS ADA Academic All-Star and the Coca-Cola Scholar-Athlete of the Year at the Magic City Classic (annual rivalry game between Alabama State and Alabama A&M).
Gray has played in 31 games and was a team captain during the 2019 season. He has rushed for 1,372 yards and six touchdowns on 341 carries during his career while adding 37 receptions for 246 yards and another touchdown. Gray led the Hornets in rushing in both 2019 and 2018.
A two-time All-SWAC selection as a return specialist, Gray has returned 44 kicks for an average of 23.93 yards. He led the conference with a 24.1 kick return average on 14 returns. The SWAC plans on playing a spring football schedule beginning in February.
Active off the field, Gray has assisted with Alabama State's campus move-in day each year. He has also served food at the Salvation Army during the holidays, and he reads to elementary school children.
Gray is currently a member of the New Orleans Breakers in the USFL.
