Eric LeGrand leads Rutgers onto field

Published Oct. 29, 2011 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

Paralyzed player Eric LeGrand led Rutgers onto the field in a snowstorm for its game against No. 25 West Virginia.

It marked the first time LeGrand has accompanied the team on the field for a game since he was paralyzed from the neck down making a tackle in a game against Army last October.

LeGrand, who was handed an axe to show Rutgers' desire to ''keep chopping,'' directed his motorized wheelchair while coach Greg Schiano walked next to him and teammates followed at a walk. LeGrand led the team to the 50-yard line, turned right and went to the sideline before quickly leaving the field.

''It felt great leading the team out on to the field today,'' LeGrand said. ''That's the team I played with throughout my career here. Leading them out on the field was a great opportunity and it really was a great time. It was a very special moment. I can't even explain it - it was a very emotional moment.''

LeGrand has been working this season for the Rutgers radio network as an analyst. He worked in the ABC booth for some of the game.

''That was fun. I had a great time with them getting some more experience with broadcasting. I am just trying to take advantage of opportunities and learn,'' he said.