Benjamin Watson was one of several NFL players to reach out to President Donald Trump Thursday advocating for sentencing and the criminal justice reform.

In a coordinated effort with several NFL players centered around a New York Times op-ed of which Watson was one of the authors, the former University of Georgia tight end requested Trump pardon those sentenced to life without parole who have already served long sentences for nonviolent offenses.

“Families are being ripped apart and by creating a more fair system, you will affect the lives of thousands of people and have a lasting impact on millions more,” Watson said in a video to the President.

Watson also tweeted out a link to the New York Times op-ed and other thoughts about criminal justice reform after posting his message to the President.

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Mercer sophomore defensive lineman Andrew Zock (center) has 10 sacks and 15 tackles for a loss this season for the No. 10-ranked Bears. (Courtesy of Mercer Athletics)

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