Oregon’s football heritage is in the spotlight as several standout players connected to the state made the 2026 College Football Hall of Fame ballot. The list features some of the most memorable names in recent college football history, highlighting the rich tradition Oregon has built on the gridiron.
The National Football Foundation unveiled the ballot this week, spotlighting 79 players and nine coaches from the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) alongside 100 players and 35 coaches from lower divisions. Among the notable nominees are former Grant High School star and Nebraska powerhouse Ndamukong Suh, as well as two iconic Ducks running backs, Kenjon Barner and Jonathan Stewart.
Ndamukong Suh: From Oregon Roots to National Recognition
Ndamukong Suh, who began his journey in Oregon’s high school ranks, remains one of the most dominant defensive linemen college football has ever seen. His 2009 season with Nebraska was nothing short of spectacular. Suh’s combination of brute strength and agility turned heads nationwide.
He was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy, marking a rare feat for a defensive lineman — the first to do so in 15 years. While he didn’t claim the Heisman, finishing fourth in the voting, Suh earned the Associated Press National Player of the Year award. That alone cements his legacy as one of the fiercest defenders to come out of the Pacific Northwest.
Suh’s journey from a standout Oregon high school player to a national football sensation is a testament to his hard work and skill. Fans in Oregon and beyond will be rooting for him to make the Hall of Fame, recognizing the impact he had on and off the field.
Kenjon Barner’s Dynamic Playmaking for the Ducks
Kenjon Barner’s name still resonates strongly with Oregon fans. His senior season in 2012 was a dazzling display of versatility and speed. Barner racked up 1,767 rushing yards and found the end zone 21 times, along with 20 receptions for 256 yards and two more touchdowns.
He earned consensus first-team All-American honors and was a finalist for the prestigious Doak Walker Award, given to the nation’s top running back. One standout moment that lives in Ducks lore is his school record for rushing yards in a single game—a testament to his explosive ability.
Barner also ranks third in Oregon’s program history for rushing touchdowns and career all-purpose yards, with 5,848 yards. That’s not just impressive; it’s legendary in a program known for producing elite backs. His inclusion on the Hall of Fame ballot feels well-deserved.
Jonathan Stewart: Breaking Records and Defining a Legacy
Jonathan Stewart’s impact on Oregon football is massive. His name is etched in the Ducks’ record books, thanks to his record-breaking single-season rushing performance. Stewart’s power and balance made him a nightmare for opposing defenses and a fan favorite.
Stewart’s consistent production laid the groundwork for Oregon’s rise as a college football powerhouse. His performance helped elevate the Ducks to national prominence, creating a legacy that continues to inspire players today. The Hall of Fame ballot recognition is a fitting honor for a player who brought so much to the program.
Other Notable Names and What’s at Stake
The ballot doesn’t only feature these three; it’s packed with talent across all divisions. The National Football Foundation’s decision will be announced in January, so fans and players alike are waiting with bated breath.
For Oregon supporters, the presence of multiple legends on this ballot is a source of pride. It speaks volumes about the program’s growth and the caliber of athletes it has nurtured over the years.
The Hall of Fame isn’t just about honoring past achievements. It’s about telling stories — stories of grit, determination, and moments that made college football unforgettable. Suh, Barner, and Stewart all have those stories in spades.
What This Means for Oregon Football’s Future
Seeing these names on the Hall of Fame ballot is more than just nostalgia. It’s a reminder that Oregon football has been, and continues to be, a breeding ground for exceptional talent. The program’s success isn’t a fluke; it’s built on the backs of players who left everything on the field.
Moreover, the recognition can inspire current Ducks players. Knowing that legends who once walked the same locker room halls are being considered for such a prestigious honor fuels motivation.
In many ways, this ballot announcement feels like a torch being passed. The future of Oregon football shines brightly, backed by a history rich in heroes.
