In a poignant revelation, Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith has spoken publicly about his enduring friendship with former Las Vegas Raiders player Henry Ruggs III, who is now serving a prison sentence for a deadly drunk-driving incident. The emotional insights came from a resurfaced podcast interview, shedding light on loyalty, tragedy, and the consequences of a single decision.
A Friendship Forged at Alabama
Smith detailed the origins of his deep bond with Ruggs during an appearance on The Pivot Podcast, hosted by former NFL stars Ryan Clark, Channing Crowder, and Fred Taylor. The interview, originally from August 2023, gained renewed attention when shared on social media in December 2025.
"Since Day 1, I set foot on campus, that was my brother," Smith recalled. He explained that Ruggs was the teammate who helped him break out of his shell during their time at the University of Alabama. Their connection grew so strong that their families became intertwined, with Smith frequently visiting Ruggs's hometown of Montgomery.
"He made me feel like I was family," Smith said, emphasizing the foundational role Ruggs played in his life. This backdrop makes the subsequent events even more heartbreaking.
The Tragic Crash and Its Aftermath
The bond was tested by a horrific event in November 2021. Henry Ruggs III was involved in a high-speed car crash while driving under the influence in Las Vegas. The collision resulted in the death of 23-year-old Tina Tintor and her dog, Max.
Following a legal process, Ruggs pleaded guilty in May 2023 to one felony count of driving under the influence resulting in death and one misdemeanor count of vehicular manslaughter. In August 2023, he was sentenced to three to ten years in prison. He is currently incarcerated at the Northern Nevada Correctional Center (NNCC) in Carson City.
Life Lessons and Unwavering Support
When asked by podcast host Channing Crowder what he learned from the tragedy involving his friend, Smith's response was reflective and sobering.
"One split-second decision, anything can happen, bad things," Smith stated. He added that such difficult times reveal who truly stands by you. "And [you] also [learn] who's with you and who's not through tough times... At the end of the day, you are still family."
Smith made his stance on loyalty unequivocally clear. "That's gonna forever be my brother, so no matter what, I'll always have his back... You're not gonna turn your back on them because of something like that." This declaration highlights the complex emotional landscape where personal loyalty coexists with the acknowledgment of a grave mistake.
Looking to the Future
Despite his incarceration, Henry Ruggs has been focusing on his rehabilitation and education. He recently earned his Bachelor of Science degree in commerce and business administration from the University of Alabama, completing his studies from behind bars with a perfect 4.0 GPA.
Ruggs will be eligible for parole in August 2026. As both men navigate their separate paths—one on the football field and one in prison—Smith's words underscore a friendship that, in his view, transcends the worst of circumstances.
The story serves as a stark reminder of the far-reaching impact of impaired driving, while also presenting a nuanced portrait of grief, accountability, and the enduring human capacity for loyalty.
