Tennessee’s Josh Heupel and VFL Legends Honored with 2025 College Football Hall of Fame Inductions
In a landmark moment for Tennessee football, head coach Josh Heupel and former Volunteers stars John Henderson, Willie Gault, and Larry Seivers have been inducted into the 2025 College Football Hall of Fame.
This recognition underscores the enduring legacy and impact of these individuals on the sport.
Josh Heupel: From Champion Quarterback to Esteemed Coach
Josh Heupel’s football journey is marked by excellence both on and off the field. As a quarterback for the Oklahoma Sooners, he led the team to a national championship in 2000 and was a Heisman Trophy runner-up. Transitioning into coaching, Heupel has revitalized the Tennessee Volunteers, achieving multiple 10-win seasons and earning the SEC Coach of the Year award in 2022. His induction into the Hall of Fame as a player highlights his significant contributions to college football .
John Henderson: Dominant Force on the Defensive Line
John Henderson’s tenure at Tennessee from 1998 to 2001 was characterized by his formidable presence on the defensive line. A two-time consensus All-American, Henderson won the Outland Trophy in 2000, awarded to the nation’s best interior lineman. His leadership and performance were instrumental in setting a school record for fewest rushing yards allowed in a season .
Willie Gault: Speedster with a Lasting Legacy
Willie Gault’s impact on Tennessee football in the early 1980s was profound. A 1982 first-team All-American, Gault led the Volunteers to three bowl appearances and set multiple conference and school records in punt and kickoff returns. His exceptional speed and agility made him a standout player, and his contributions continue to be celebrated .
Larry Seivers: Reliable Target and Record Setter
Larry Seivers’ consistency and skill as a wide receiver from 1974 to 1976 earned him two consensus All-American honors. He ranks among Tennessee’s top receivers in career reception yardage and receptions, reflecting his significant role in the team’s offensive success during his collegiate career .
A Testament to Tennessee’s Football Heritage
The induction of Heupel, Henderson, Gault, and Seivers into the College Football Hall of Fame brings Tennessee’s total to 30 inductees, the highest in the SEC. This achievement reflects the program’s rich history and its ongoing commitment to excellence in college football .
The official induction ceremony is scheduled for December 9, 2025, at the Bellagio Hotel & Resort in Las Vegas, during the 67th National Football Foundation Annual Awards Dinner. Additionally, each inductee will be honored at their respective schools with an NFF Hall of Fame On-Campus Salute during the 2025 season .
This recognition not only honors the individual achievements of these football greats but also celebrates the enduring legacy of Tennessee football.
