Definitely a door opener and great conversation piece if you want to stay within Alabama's footprint.

But in terms of any lasting benefit, that really only comes if you made a name for yourself and can maintain some ties to the program. If you are one of those guys who people know and perceived as having connections, it can absolutely help you. People like to have those dudes in their circles.

But just being on the football team doesn't guarantee you a whole heck of a lot, particularly if you leave the deep South.