ATLANTA- Kyriq McDonald is reported to be just fine after a scary moment during Alabama’s National Championship victory over Georgia. The former James Clemens All-State player and current freshman for the Crimson Tide collapsed during the final minutes of the third quarter on the Alabama sideline sending a frenzy within the medical staff nearby.

Alabama officials stated the situation was a “non-athletic medical issue” while tending to the 5-foot-11, 195-pound defensive back who was not expected to play in the Crimson Tide’s battle with Georgia. McDonald was lifted to a stretcher and was soon carted off to the locker room where he was evaluated by the medical staff. While being led away, McDonald appeared to be awake and alert as he acknowledged the crowd.

According to information obtained by the Madison Record, McDonald had been ill suffering from pneumonia and did not practice the entire week the Crimson Tide prepped for the National Championship game against the Bulldogs. The information indicated he was dehydrated while being suited up for the contest in Atlanta. As customary, all players available on the team roster made the trip to the game and suited up, though some not expected to play. McDonald was expected to be redshirted this season and will have four more years of eligibility of play.

McDonald was a four-star recruit among the 2017 recruiting class at Alabama regarded as the top class in the nation. He played under James Clemens head coach Wade Waldrop and chose Alabama over several schools including Florida State, Louisville and Mississippi State.

He is expected to participate in all of the team’s 26-23 overtime National Championship victory celebrations.