Alvin Kamara makes 'large philanthropic gift' to Tennessee alma mater

Alvin Kamara has made plenty of stops at Tennessee since turning pro with the New Orleans Saints, but soon his name will be permanently tied to Neyland Stadium. On Thursday, Tennessee Athletics announced that the former Volunteer donated "a large philanthropic gift" to his alma mater. Kamara will be recognized for his act of generosity at the Vols' Orange & White Game this Saturday. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. CT, and the scrimmage will be open to the public.

Kamara addressed his decision in a statement from the Tennessee athletic department:

"There are certain experiences that shape you throughout your life. In my heart, it was only right that I pour back into the university that gave me an opportunity when I didn't quite know what was next. The naming recognition space that we are working on, inside Neyland Stadium, will be a representation of perseverance and faith for everyone who enters for years to come."

Details on a "prominent naming opportunity" are forthcoming. Neyland Stadium features six names on its Ring of Honor -- Robert R. Neyland, Al Wilson, Reggie White, Peyton Manning, Johnny Majors, and Doug Atkins -- with bronze statues honoring other former players like Lester McClain, Jackie Walker, Condredge Hollway, and Tee Martin also onsite. Kamara will be in good company.

Before making the leap to the NFL, and before he joined the Volunteers, Kamara initially played college football at Alabama and transferred to Hutchinson Community College in Kansas. His work in the Tennessee backfield put him on the map, and a chance meeting with former Saints coach Sean Payton eventually put him in black and gold. After being picked in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Kamara has earned every major rushing record in Saints franchise history to go with five Pro Bowls and other big-time accolades. We don't know if this is it for Kamara in New Orleans, but his timing for a legacy-building donation to his alma mater has to be intentional.

This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Saints RB Alvin Kamara has philanthropic gift for Tennessee Volunteers