ELIZABETHTOWN, N.C. (WECT) – Larrell Murchison, defensive end for the LA Rams, returned to Bladen County to host a free football camp for the 4th year in a row.

Murchison says he started the camp after his first year of playing for the Rams, wanting to give back to the community where he grew up.

“When I was younger, I used to come to the Dez Bryant’s camps and I was like, man, if I ever can make it that big, I want to do the same thing because I remember how it felt to meet an NFL player,” Murchison said.

Murchison says being in a small town, it’s important for these kids to have this opportunity.

He says the most rewarding part of it all is to see the kids’ excitement.

“The smile when they get an autograph and picture. That’s what I live for,” Murchison said.

Murchison wasn’t the only NFL pro coaching. He was joined by DJ Wonnum from the Carolina Panthers, Javonte Williams from the Denver Broncos and Columbus County native Pharoah McKever from the Steelers.

Jeremiah Johnson and Braylon Smith say they had never played football before coming to camp, but they wanted to meet someone they look up to.

“I just thank God for Mr. Larrell coming here and showing us everything that he has gave to us, giving back to the community,” Johnson said.

Murchison says at the end of the day, he wants to inspire these kids to be their best – both on and off the field.

“Every one of these kids right here got the opportunity to be great, and that’s why I’m here: to tell them they can be,” Murchison said.

Hosting the camp is not the only way he’s giving back to the community. Murchison recently started a foundation called Never Without, that will provide school supplies for kids in Bladen County.

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