The Black College Football Hall of Fame in downtown Atlanta was abuzz with celebration and history on Saturday night during its 16th annual induction ceremony.
Honored was a new class of legends whose achievements have shaped the legacy of HBCU football.
A Night of Honors and Reflection
Hosted by NFL Network broadcaster and Howard University alumnus Steve Wyche, the event drew over 30 previous inductees, VIPs, and supporters from across the country, all gathered to recognize the contributions of Black college football’s finest.
Doug Williams, BCFHOF co-founder and 2011 inductee, captured the spirit of the night:
“What we have with the Class of 2025 is an incredible showcase of the talent that has come from Historically Black Colleges and Universities over the years. When the Black College Hall of Fame was established, its purpose was to do just this, elevating and recognizing the past, present, and future of Black College Football. Congratulations to the Class of 2025.”
Meet the Class of 2025
Six new members were enshrined, each representing a different chapter in HBCU football history:
- Henry Dyer (Grambling State University): Grambling’s first 1,000-yard rusher, Dyer was a first-team All-SWAC selection from 1963-65 and led the nation in scoring with 110 points. He was drafted in the fourth round of the 1966 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams.
- Rashean Mathis (Bethune-Cookman University): A three-time All-MEAC First-Team honoree, Mathis excelled as a defensive back from 1999-2002 before a distinguished NFL career.
- Jacquay Nunnally (Florida A&M University): Nunnally was a standout wide receiver for the Rattlers from 1997-2000, known for his record-setting catches and electrifying play.
- Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (Tennessee State University): Rodgers-Cromartie starred as a defensive back from 2004 to 2007 and later became a two-time NFL Pro Bowler.
- Jay “Sky” Walker (Howard University): The dynamic quarterback led Howard to new heights in the early 1990s and remains a revered figure in Bison football history.
- Coach Fred “Pop” Long (Wiley College): A coaching legend, Long’s career spanned over four decades (1921-1965), leaving a lasting impact on Wiley College and Black college football as a whole.
Tennessee State U legend and 12-year NFL vet Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie is among 6 greats to be enshrined into the Black College Football Hall of Fame tonight. DRC joined me on NFL Network to discuss that, the state of HBCU football and former NFL players coaching at HBCUs. pic.twitter.com/lj4D6jbJ01
— Steve Wyche (@wyche89) June 7, 2025
The ceremony also spotlighted two outstanding modern stars:
- Jada Byers (Virginia Union University) received the 2024 Black College Football Player of the Year award, earning the Deacon Jones Trophy for his remarkable season.
- Cobie Durant (South Carolina State/Los Angeles Rams) was named the 2024 Black College Football Pro Player of the Year, an honor presented by the NFLPA.
- Jackson State football was honored as the HBCU team of the year, and head coach T.C. Taylor was recognized as Coach of the Year.
A Legacy Preserved
Since its founding in 2009 by James Harris and Doug Williams, the BCFHOF has inducted over 100 players, coaches, and contributors, preserving the stories of HBCU football excellence. The Hall’s permanent exhibit at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, continues to educate and inspire future generations.
As the Class of 2025 took their place among the greats, the ceremony reinforced the enduring influence of HBCU football and the individuals who have paved the way for today’s stars. The evening was not just a celebration of athletic achievement, but a powerful testament to the culture, history, and ongoing impact of Black college football