Cam Newton, Multiple Players Join 2026 College Football Hall of Fame Ballot

The 2026 College Football Hall of Fame ballot features several notable nominees from prestigious programs, including Auburn's Cam Newton, who is making his first appearance despite being eligible since 2021. Newton led Auburn to a national championship in 2010, winning the Heisman Trophy and posting one of the most dominant quarterback seasons in college football history, while also joining Auburn legends linebacker Takeo Spikes and coach Tommy Tuberville on the ballot. Other prominent nominees include former Washington coach Chris Petersen and offensive lineman Olin Kreutz, recognized for their significant contributions to University of Washington football. Additionally, Alabama's Mark Ingram II and DeMeco Ryans headline their program's ballot, with Ryans now serving as head coach of the Houston Texans. The National Football Foundation's list of nominees is diverse and star-studded, underscoring the competitive process to select the 2026 inductees, which will be announced in January 2026. Despite the controversy that surrounded Newton's college career, many experts deem his nomination a no-brainer given his extraordinary impact on the sport.