Texas Tech Legend to be Inducted Into College Football Hall of Fame

LUBBOCK, TX – Former Texas Tech quarterback Graham Harrell, who set NCAA records during his legendary career, has been selected for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame as part of the 2025 class, the National Football Foundation (NFF) announced Wednesday. Harrell will become the seventh Red Raider in history to receive this honor.

Harrell is among 18 players and four coaches to be inducted during the 67th NFF Annual Awards Dinner on December 9 in Las Vegas. The announcement was made live on ESPN2’s College Football Live.

“There is no higher honor in college football, and it’s a fitting recognition for one of the game’s top quarterbacks,” said Kirby Hocutt, Texas Tech’s Director of Athletics.

Harrell joins an elite group of Red Raiders in the College Football Hall of Fame, including E.J. Holub, Donny Anderson, Dave Parks, Gabe Rivera, Zach Thomas, and Michael Crabtree, who was inducted in 2022.

Harrell’s time at Texas Tech (2005–2008) redefined college football passing standards. Over three seasons, he amassed 15,793 passing yards, remaining Texas Tech's all-time leader in numerous categories, including:

• Passing touchdowns: 134
• Completions: 1,403
• Passing yards per game: 350.9
• 300-yard games: 32

His 2008 season remains one of the most memorable in program history. Harrell threw for 5,111 yards and 45 touchdowns, earning accolades such as:

• Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award
• Sammy Baugh Trophy
• AT&T All-America Player of the Year

That year, Harrell led Texas Tech to an 11-1 regular season record, a share of the Big 12 South title, and a rise to No. 2 in national polls.

After college, Harrell played professionally, including a stint with the Green Bay Packers, where he earned a Super Bowl XLV ring. Transitioning to coaching, Harrell has served at institutions like North Texas, USC, and Purdue, continuing his impact on the game.

To qualify for induction, players must meet strict eligibility criteria, including:

• Achieving first-team All-American recognition by a major selector.
• Having played their final collegiate season at least 10 years prior.
• No longer being active in professional football.

Harrell’s achievements will be permanently honored at the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta.

Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire said: “Graham’s legacy as one of college football’s great quarterbacks is unmatched. Our entire program is proud of him for earning this well-deserved honor."