The 2025 College Football Hall of Fame Class Announced
The College Football Hall of Fame has officially unveiled its 2025 class, a lineup that celebrates some of the most legendary players and coaches in the sport’s history. This year’s inductees span decades of college football greatness, honoring standout athletes and influential leaders whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the game. From record-setting quarterbacks to dominant defenders and transformative coaches, the 2025 class is a testament to the rich history of college football.
The 2025 class features 18 players and 4 coaches, all of whom exemplified excellence on and off the field. Among the most notable names are players who were household names during their college careers and coaches whose legacies extend beyond wins and losses.
Quarterback Legends
- Tim Tebow (Florida, 2006-2009): The face of college football during his era, Tebow became the first sophomore to win the Heisman Trophy in 2007. A two-time national champion with the Gators, Tebow is remembered for his leadership, dual-threat ability, and iconic “Promise” speech. He finished his career with over 12,000 total yards and 145 touchdowns, cementing his status as one of the greatest to ever play.
- Andrew Luck (Stanford, 2009-2011): Known for his precision passing and high football IQ, Luck led Stanford to two BCS bowl appearances and was a two-time Heisman Trophy runner-up. With over 9,400 passing yards and 82 touchdowns in just three seasons, Luck was a transformative figure for the Cardinal program.
Defensive Dominance
- Patrick Willis (Ole Miss, 2003-2006): A tackling machine, Willis was a two-time All-American and the 2006 Butkus Award winner as the nation’s top linebacker. Known for his sideline-to-sideline speed and hard-hitting style, Willis was the heart of the Rebels’ defense during his tenure.
- Champ Bailey (Georgia, 1996-1998): A true two-way player, Bailey excelled as a cornerback, wide receiver, and return specialist. He earned unanimous All-American honors in 1998 and was awarded the Bronko Nagurski Trophy as the nation’s top defensive player.
Offensive Powerhouses
- Larry Fitzgerald (Pittsburgh, 2002-2003): One of the most electrifying wide receivers in college football history, Fitzgerald was a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2003 after recording 92 catches for 1,672 yards and 22 touchdowns. His spectacular catches and uncanny ability to make plays in traffic made him a must-watch player.
- LaDainian Tomlinson (TCU, 1997-2000): A trailblazing running back, Tomlinson led the nation in rushing yards in 1999 and 2000, including a then-record 406-yard game against UTEP. His vision and breakaway speed turned TCU into a powerhouse, and he remains one of the greatest running backs of all time.
Coaching Giants
- Pete Carroll (USC, 2001-2009): The architect of one of college football’s greatest dynasties, Carroll led USC to two national championships and seven consecutive Pac-10 titles. His infectious energy, innovative strategies, and ability to recruit top talent defined an era of dominance for the Trojans.
- Mack Brown (Texas, 1998-2013, 2019-present): A legend in Austin, Brown guided Texas to a national championship in 2005 and 10 seasons with 10 or more wins. Known for his ability to connect with players and fans alike, Brown is among the most respected figures in the sport.
The College Football Hall of Fame, located in Atlanta, Georgia, selects its inductees through a rigorous process overseen by the National Football Foundation (NFF). To be eligible, players must have been named a First Team All-American by a recognized selector and must be at least 10 years removed from their college careers. Coaches are eligible three years after retirement or immediately if they are over the age of 70.
This year’s selection committee faced the challenge of narrowing down a ballot of more than 80 players and 10 coaches, each deserving in their own right. The final class reflects the diversity and richness of college football, with players and coaches representing programs from all levels of competition.
The inductees will be formally enshrined during the NFF Annual Awards Dinner, scheduled for December 2025 in Las Vegas. This star-studded event will honor the contributions of the new Hall of Famers while celebrating the enduring legacy of college football.
For fans, players, and coaches alike, the 2025 College Football Hall of Fame class serves as a reminder of the sport’s enduring power to inspire and unite. From Tim Tebow’s emotional speeches to Pete Carroll’s high-energy sideline antics, the stories of these legends continue to resonate with new generations of football enthusiasts.
As college football evolves, the Hall of Fame stands as a bridge between the past and the future, preserving the stories of those who shaped the game while inspiring those who will define its next chapter. With this year’s class, the Hall adds another remarkable chapter to its storied history.