Don’t sleep on the Renaissance fullback. That might be the best genre of stereotype-obliterating archetypes in the NFL these days, and while there are numerous examples, there’s no better proof of concept than Alec Ingold. The Dolphins’ one-man block party doesn’t block so much as he flattens. He’s so beloved by coach Mike McDaniel and Miami’s offensive assistants that he signed an extension this summer that made him one of the highest-paid players at his position (three years, up to $17.2 million).
He’s a pillar in McDaniel’s south Florida revival, a protector of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa at a time when protection matters more than ever and a success story in various forms. Undrafted rookie morphs into pillar for multiple franchises (the Raiders and Dolphins, in only four-plus seasons). Stalwart at an allegedly dying position tears ACL, relocates, comes back, plays 40% of new team’s offensive snaps, thrives. Adoptee becomes national spokesman for AdoptUSKids, establishes the Ingold Family Foundation to inspire/support/motivate, especially youth and especially youth in foster care. Fullback-turned-author pens book, inspirational in tenor, a “practical guide to conquering life’s obstacles,” despite not having written the football ending he most desires.
He’s 27, by the way, and focusing on putting all elements of his life together. That ending—a Super Bowl triumph—is up next, followed by, in retirement, a pivot into full-time motivational speaking, with an emphasis on collaboration and reliability, two important traits for any Renaissance fullback.
