(Photo via Maurice Clarett on Twitter)
Former Ohio State running back Maurice Clarett announced on Twitter that he got the chance to speak with the Steelers rookies on Tuesday. Clarett was a member of the Buckeye's 2002 National Championship team and was one of the best running backs in the country, but off-the-field issues plagued his career.
After a short stint with the Broncos, Clarett served nearly four years in prison for aggravated robbery and carrying a concealed weapon.
Since his release, Clarett has become a celebrated public speaker across the country by speaking candidly about his previous struggles and successful recovery. Additionally, Clarett founded a successful behavioral health agency in both Youngstown and Columbus.
"Thx to the entire Steelers organization for having me out today," Clarett tweeted. "Everyone knows Mike Tomlin is special to me. He had never met me prior to today but wrote me a letter when I was in prison encouraging me to continue to build my life. I had a chance to build with the rookies 2day."
Former Ohio State Buckeye and Steeler, Ryan Shazier commented on Clarett's post and said, "This is awesome."
Guest speakers coming in to talk with rookies is common across the NFL, and it was interesting to find out the background story that Tomlin wrote a letter to Clarett when he was in prison, which just speaks to the kind of man Tomlin is. Clarett's story is also a perfect example that people can, in fact, change.
In recent years, Clarett has spoken in public forums several times about his experiences in the criminal justice system and the need for criminal justice reform.