HBCU Legend, NFL Star Gifts Family and Teen Who 'Walked 6 Miles To His Graduation'

HBCU legend and NFL star bestowed gifts on a N. St. Louis teen and family for his passion and commitment in getting to his eighth-grade graduation.

HBCU legend and NFL star Terron Armstead was in his hometown of Cahokia, IL, for his T. Stead Celebrity Basketball Tournament at Cahokia Senior High School. He was 12 miles away from the North St. Louis teenager who walked over 2 hours for six miles to get to his eighth-grade graduation ceremony.  Why?  His grandfather's vehicle broke down, days before receiving his diploma — Xavier had to get to his graduation.

After learning about the commitment and passion of the teen, Armstead and Bommarito Automotive Group decided to help young Xavier Jones and his family. The Jones Family received a $40,000 minivan, and Xavier was gifted a $5,000 Ryan Prichard Electric Bike at Armstead's event.

His grandad is disabled," Armstead told News 4.  "[They] don't have any means of transportation.  So the whole family is really walking to get any and everywhere...Follow Xavier's example. He's a leader, whether he wanted to be or not, he is. His story is inspiring. It's motivating. That's what leaders do."

Xavier's grandfather remarked, "This means a whole lot. I don't know what to say.  I'm so thankful." He has cared for Xavier — who also has sickle cell — and his six siblings since their mother passed away a few years ago.  

"To be some form of hope and inspiration to the community.  We hear a story like Xavier, it's only right," Armstead noted.

Xavier's grandfather tearfully said to his grandson, "Thank you, dude."  And then they warmly embraced to applause.

According to the report, Harris Stowe State University granted Xavier a full scholarship.

Terron Armstead, out of Arkansas-Pine Bluff, was drafted by the New Orleans Saints as the 75th overall pick in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft.  He played eight seasons in New Orleans before signing a five-year, $75 million free-agent deal with the Miami Dolphins in 2022.  The 6-5, 304-pound offensive tackle earned 3 First-Team All-SWAC honors with UAPB (2010–2012), 4 Pro-Bowl trips (2018–2020, 2022), and a Second-Team All-Pro honor in 2018.

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