(photo via today.com)

An unlikely friendship was formed in Montford Middle School’s lunchroom in Tallahassee, Florida, when Travis Rudolph, then Florida State University’s star wide receiver, sat down across from a young, autistic boy eating his lunch alone. Bo Paske, then 11, bonded with the Seminole over a slice of pizza and since then, the two have remained close friends.

Rudolph, who now plays for the New York Giants, was visiting the school with five other Florida State players for a community service program. After Rudolph got his slices of pizza, he noticed Paske sitting alone and was drawn to join him.

“Something clicked in my head like ‘Let me go ask him if I can have lunch with him and eat lunch with him.’” Rudolph said.

RELATED CONTENT: See how one Indianapolis organization is helping local football players who are affected by shootings

Paske said the football star offered a simple “Sup, dude” when Rudolph approached him. Here is a video by CBS This Morning that highlights the story.

Bo’s mother, Leah Paske, was emotionally moved by the athlete’s gesture and shared a touching message on her Facebook page.

Here is an excerpt from the post:

This is one day I didn't have to worry if my sweet boy ate lunch alone, because he sat across from someone who is a hero in many eyes. Travis Rudolph thank you so much, you made this momma exceedingly happy, and have made us fans for life!

Since the message was posted in 2016, the Paskes have stayed true to being his fan for life. Rudolph invited Paske to Seminoles games and even got him a personalized Florida State jersey. The Paskes are now referred to as family to the Rudolphs.

“We’ve just formed such a great relationship with his family. I talk to his mom several times a week. I just love her so much,” Paske said. “They’re just fantastic. They really value family and relationships highly. I’m just grateful to be able to be a part of that.”

RELATED CONTENT: See why Saquon Barkley isn't spending a dime he makes from the NFL

A photo of Bo and his mom watching the game with Rudolph’s parents was shared on Twitter.

Great Feeling to see Bo and his mom Leah enjoy the game with Travis's parents !!! pic.twitter.com/N0KKLbceTv

— Mr. Coles (@frozen1_1906) September 10, 2016

Rudolph signed with the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent last year and right beside him was best friend, Bo. The Paskes drove from Tallahassee to Rudolph’s home in West Palm Beach for a draft viewing party.

ESPN captured the two sitting together, awaiting Rudolph’s future in the NFL.

Bo Paske in the house with Travis Rudolph. If you recall, Travis, sat with Bo during lunch which started their friendshsip. pic.twitter.com/9CElm1AvUv

— Max Shepman (@MadMax1063) April 29, 2017

"He just kept asking, 'Which team is he going to play for?' So when we were able to tell him he was going to the Giants, he was completely excited," Leah Paske said of Bo. “It was an exciting weekend.”

RELATED CONTENT: 'Hear the message, not the tone': See what these coaches are saying about Tampa Bay Buccaneers player Gerald McCoy's message