Two names known nationwide and here in South Bend Todd Lyght and Manti Te’o are on the 2026 NFF College Football Hall of Fame
Todd Lyght and Manti Te’o have both been named to the 2026 National Football Foundation (NFF) College Football Hall of Fame class, a prestigious honor that recognizes their outstanding collegiate careers and lasting impact on the game of college football. This announcement celebrates two athletes whose achievements on the field, leadership, and character have left indelible marks in their respective programs and the broader landscape of college football.
Todd Lyght, a standout cornerback for the University of Notre Dame during the late 1980s, is widely regarded as one of the most dynamic defensive players in Notre Dame history. Lyght’s collegiate career spanned from 1985 to 1988, during which he earned unanimous All-American honors and was a finalist for several national awards. His agility, speed, and football intelligence allowed him to excel not only in pass coverage but also as a punt returner, making him a versatile threat on defense and special teams. Throughout his time at Notre Dame, Lyght was known for his knack for making critical plays in high-pressure situations, often changing the momentum of games with timely interceptions and tackles. His leadership on and off the field set a standard for future Notre Dame defensive backs, inspiring a tradition of excellence at the program.
Following his collegiate success, Lyght transitioned to a professional career in the National Football League (NFL), where he continued to demonstrate the skills and determination that defined his college years. However, it is his college achievements that the NFF Hall of Fame primarily honors, recognizing the impact he had at the collegiate level and the exemplary character he displayed. Lyght’s induction into the College Football Hall of Fame serves not only as a testament to his athletic prowess but also to his enduring commitment to the sport and his alma mater.
Manti Te’o, on the other hand, made his mark in a more recent era, starring as a linebacker at the University of Notre Dame from 2009 to 2012. Te’o’s career was distinguished by his remarkable tackling ability, leadership, and resilience. He was a consensus All-American, a finalist for the prestigious Heisman Trophy, and widely regarded as one of the best defensive players in college football during his tenure. Te’o’s influence extended beyond his physical abilities; he was a vocal leader and a unifying presence in the locker room, earning the respect of teammates, coaches, and opponents alike.
Te’o’s 2012 season was particularly noteworthy. He led Notre Dame to an undefeated regular season and an appearance in the BCS National Championship Game, showcasing his skills on a national stage. His performances in key games, including dominant displays against top-ranked opponents, solidified his reputation as an elite linebacker. Off the field, Te’o became a symbol of integrity and perseverance, overcoming personal challenges while maintaining his commitment to excellence in football. His story resonated with fans across the country and elevated his status as a role model for aspiring athletes.
The inclusion of both Lyght and Te’o in the 2026 College Football Hall of Fame class highlights the wide spectrum of talent and leadership that college football has cultivated across generations. The NFF’s decision to induct these two players reflects not only their individual accomplishments but also the evolving nature of the game and the varied paths through which players have impacted their teams and communities. Their careers, though separated by decades, share common themes of dedication, athletic excellence, and character.
Both players exemplify the values that the National Football Foundation promotes through its Hall of Fame. These values include academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement, in addition to athletic performance. Lyght and Te’o have been praised for their contributions off the field, participating in charitable work and serving as ambassadors for the sport. Their induction celebrates these holistic qualities, emphasizing that greatness in college football transcends statistics and highlights the importance of character and citizenship.
The 2026 class also represents a broader recognition of defensive players, who often do not receive as much spotlight as offensive stars but are equally crucial to the success of their teams. Lyght’s skill as a shutdown cornerback and Te’o’s dominance as a linebacker underscore the vital role defense plays in championship-caliber teams. Their induction is a reminder of how impactful defensive prowess can be in shaping the outcome of games and the legacy of a program.
The Hall of Fame ceremony, which will take place later in the year, promises to be a celebration of college football’s rich history and the outstanding individuals who have contributed to its growth and popularity. For Lyght and Te’o, this honor cements their legacies and provides an opportunity for reflection on their journeys—from promising athletes to celebrated legends. Family, friends, former teammates, and coaches will gather to honor their achievements, underscoring the communal nature of football and the bonds formed through competition and shared experience.
In recognizing Todd Lyght and Manti Te’o, the College Football Hall of Fame also pays tribute to the universities they represented. Notre Dame, with its storied football tradition, continues to produce players who excel at the highest levels and exemplify the spirit of the game. The inductions affirm the university’s commitment to developing athletes who not only achieve success on the field but also demonstrate leadership and integrity.
For fans and aspiring football players, the stories of Lyght and Te’o serve as powerful inspirations. Their careers exemplify the rewards of hard work, perseverance, and maintaining high standards both athletically and personally. Young athletes looking to make their mark in college football can look to these Hall of Famers as examples of what can be achieved through dedication and resilience.
The College Football Hall of Fame’s mission to preserve the history and celebrate the achievements of the sport finds a perfect embodiment in Todd Lyght and Manti Te’o. Their legacies remind us that football is more than a game; it is a platform for developing character, building community, and inspiring future generations. As the 2026 class is welcomed into the Hall, the football world honors these two remarkable athletes and the enduring impact they have made on college football’s storied landscape.
Ultimately, the induction of Todd Lyght and Manti Te’o into the College Football Hall of Fame is a testament to their remarkable contributions to the sport. Their achievements reflect not only their talent but also the hard work, leadership, and integrity that define true greatness in college football. As they join the ranks of other legends, their stories will continue to inspire and resonate, underscoring the profound legacy of the game.
