Garrison Hearst was a force on the football field, whether he was running the ball or catching passes. This former Georgia running back was known for his incredible speed and agility. He loved the game so much that he didn’t want to come off the field. “I wanted to be in every play,” he said. He wanted his coaches to trust that he could handle any situation.
Hearst’s talent shone brightly during his time at the University of Georgia from 1990 to 1992. Recently, he was named a member of the College Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026, set to be inducted on December 8 in Las Vegas.
In high school, Hearst was a standout player for Lincoln County High School. He quickly made waves in college, starting six games his freshman year and rushing for 717 yards. By his junior year, he was unstoppable. He won the Doak Walker Award as the best running back, running for 1,547 yards and 19 touchdowns. His performance that year set records, including the highest yards-per-carry average in SEC history at 6.8, surpassing legends like Bo Jackson.
“It was a blast playing for Georgia,” he recalled. The offensive strategy, combined with other talented players, made it easy to shine. Hearst’s achievements didn’t just bring personal accolades; they helped the team win.
He also made headlines while competing for the Heisman Trophy against Gino Toretta and Marshall Faulk. Though he didn’t win, finishing third, he still celebrated an incredible touchdown by striking a famous pose, much to the amusement of his teammates.
Transitioning to the NFL, Hearst played for a decade, battling through injuries and showcasing resilience after being named NFL Comeback Player of the Year twice. He rushed for over 1,000 yards multiple times, with his best season yielding 1,570 yards. In total, he amassed nearly 8,000 rushing yards and over 2,000 receiving yards, leaving a noteworthy impact on the sport.
Reflecting on his career, Hearst emphasized the importance of grit. “I learned that you should never want to leave the field,” he noted, illustrating his desire to be the best teammate he could be. His time at Georgia truly shaped him.
As Hearst steps into the Hall of Fame, he joins an elite group of players, and he takes pride in representing the University of Georgia. His journey—from high school standout to a celebrated college athlete and NFL player—serves as an inspiring reminder of hard work and dedication in sports.
For more about Garrison Hearst’s journey and the latest news in college football, visit the National Football Foundation.
