Four former Grambling State stars—Paul Tank Younger, Everson Walls, Albert Lewis, and Doug Williams—are under consideration for the 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame. Younger, Walls, and Lewis made the final 31 in the Seniors category, while Williams reached the semifinals in the contributors' category. Legendary coach Eddie Robinson, who sent nearly 200 players to the NFL, was also considered due to his historic coaching record and influence. The nominations highlight the legacy Grambling State has in contributing talent to both college and professional football.

By the Numbers
  • Paul Tank Younger: First NFL player from an HBCU, four-time Pro Bowl selection.
  • Everson Walls: 57 career interceptions, leading the league three times.
  • Albert Lewis: 42 interceptions and 11 blocked kicks during his NFL career.
  • Doug Williams: First African American quarterback drafted in the first round (1978), led Washington to a Super Bowl victory).
Yes, But

Despite the impressive accomplishments of these players, the competition for induction is fierce, with many deserving candidates vying for a limited number of spots. While their stats speak volumes, historical biases in Hall of Fame selections could hinder their chances.

State of Play
  • Nomination process is currently underway to determine the final Hall of Fame Class.
  • Finalists will be voted on at the annual selection meeting prior to the Super Bowl.
What's Next

The next significant milestone will be the announcement of the Hall of Fame Class, which will include only a select few from the current pool. The prospects of these Grambling State icons will be closely monitored as results are made public.

Bottom Line

The recognition of these four legends underscores Grambling State's historical significance in football. Their potential induction into the Hall of Fame not only celebrates their achievements but also highlights the impact of HBCUs on the sport.