The National Football Foundation (NFF) and College Hall of Fame recently released the 2027 ballot for the College Football Hall of Fame, featuring notable former University of Oklahoma players, Rocky Calmus and Josh Heupel. This is a special moment for both athletes, given their impressive records and contributions to the game.
Every year, ballots are sent to over 12,000 NFF members and Hall of Famers. They will cast their votes, which get reviewed by the NFF’s Honors Court, led by Archie Griffin, a College Football Hall of Famer himself. The 2027 inductees will be announced in early 2027 during a major awards dinner.
Notably, in December 2026, George Cumby, a former linebacker, will also join the ranks of the Hall of Fame, marking the 25th player from OU to be inducted. This adds to a proud legacy, especially as he becomes the sixth defender from OU to earn this honor.
Now, let’s dive deeper into the careers of Calmus and Heupel.
Rocky Calmus
Calmus was a standout linebacker for the Sooners from 1998 to 2001. He played a pivotal role in OU’s resurgence under Bob Stoops. In 1999, he made a significant impact with 114 tackles. His numbers only got better in 2000, when he achieved a career-high of 125 tackles and won the prestigious AP Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year award. Notably, he was recognized as college football’s toughest player that season.
His achievements didn’t stop there. In 2001, he became a consensus All-American and won the Butkus Award, which is awarded to the top linebacker in the nation. He ranks fourth in school history with 431 tackles and holds several records, including career tackles for loss and sacks by an inside linebacker.
Josh Heupel
Heupel, who played from 1999 to 2000, was a game-changer at quarterback. He was a strong contender for the 2000 Heisman Trophy and became the first consensus All-America quarterback from OU. Transferring from a junior college, he quickly turned the struggling offense into a powerhouse. Under his guidance, the Sooners achieved a perfect 13-0 season in 2000 and snagged a national championship.
Heupel’s career stats are impressive. He threw for over 7,000 yards and 53 touchdowns in just two seasons, ranking in the top five for several passing records at OU. After his playing days, he transitioned to coaching and has been successful, currently leading the Tennessee Volunteers.
As college football evolves, players like Calmus and Heupel remind us of the powerful legacies these athletes create. Their stories inspire new generations and highlight the importance of hard work and dedication in sports.
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