Alabama freshman defensive back Tony Mitchell, who has returned to team activities, shared a video on social media Sunday in which he reflected on his arrest and suspension from the team.

Mitchell, who attended a banquet, tweeted the video in which he spoke publicly about his March 15 arrest for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and/or sell.

“Even though this situation was beyond hard for me, I find joy knowing that if God didn’t start where he did, something much bigger could have happened,” Mitchell said. “I also want to thank Alabama football for seeing my potential and giving me a second chance. I’m grateful for everyone who supported me through this hard time every day, just thinking the possibility of it all being over with devastated me.”

Mitchell was arrested after his 2023 Dodge Challenger reached speeds of 141 mph as he eluded police before his vehicle was later located and stopped. More than 200 grams of marijuana and more than $7,000 cash, scales and a loaded gun were all found in the car.

“I didn’t know if I’d get to play football again, but I continued to work out and stay close with the Lord and those who love me unconditionally,” Mitchell said. “During those times, it helped me to keep my mind off it, but when I was by myself looking at social media and what everybody had to say about it, just felt like it happened again. I couldn’t sleep at night. Everyone’s always going to have something to say about you, whether you right or wrong, but I appreciate my family and my dad for always being there for me and the constant advice my mom.”

He ended with a message to others in attendance.

“To all the athletes here tonight, just keep pursuing your dreams,” Mitchell said. “God got a designated path for you and all your talents are from the Lord. Do not let anyone or anything distract you from your purpose and keep a small circle of people that truly love and care about you and always work hard because it’ll play off in the end.”

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Music App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.