Fox Sports adds former Alabama, Saints star Mark Ingram to college football coverage: ‘I can’t wait’

Fox Sports adds former Alabama, Saints star Mark Ingram to college football coverage: ‘I can’t wait’

Mark Ingram is trading in his helmet and shoulder pads for a microphone.

In the process, Fox Sports is adding another Heisman Trophy winner to its college football coverage.

The network announced Thursday that former Alabama and NFL star will join its college football coverage.

Ingram, a former Heisman Trophy winner, will appear on “Big Noon Kickoff” this fall along with Matt Leinart, Urban Meyer, Brady Quinn and Rob Stone. Ingram will replace former New Orleans Saints running back and USC star Reggie Bush on the telecast.

“I’m thrilled to join FOX Sports and BIG NOON KICKOFF,” Ingram said in a release. “I can’t wait to feel the energy and excitement every Saturday, alongside some of the most talented and entertaining names in our sport, at the biggest games in college football – I’m ready for the Fall!”

“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Heisman Trophy-winner and BCS National Champion Mark Ingram to the FOX Sports family,” Brad Zager, the president of production and operations for Fox Sports, said in a statement. “Mark’s infectious personality, outstanding playing credentials and above all passion for the game is what makes him such an invaluable asset to our team. With him on board, BIG NOON KICKOFF will continue to provide viewers with unparalleled analysis and commentary each and every Saturday.”

A first-round pick to the Saints in 2011, Ingram, 33, enjoyed a 12-season NFL career, totaling 8,111 rushing yards, 2,125 yards receiving, and 75 total touchdowns. Ingram would be named to three Pro Bowls and is the Saints all-time leader in rushing yardage and touchdowns.

At Alabama, he rushed for 3,261 yards and scored 46 touchdowns in three years. His 1,658 yards and 17 scores on the ground in 2009 earned him the Heisman Trophy. Ingram earned MVP honors in the BCS title game as Alabama beat Texas to win its 13th national title.

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 Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.