Hanson Field | Western Illinois University Leathernecks
Hanson Field | Western Illinois University Leathernecks
This week, the National Football Foundation (NFF) and College Hall of Fame released the 2026 ballot for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame. The list includes 79 players and nine coaches from the Football Bowl Subdivision, along with 100 players and 35 coaches from divisional ranks. Among those nominated is Don Greco, a Western Illinois University Athletics Hall of Famer.
Greco was a four-year letter winner at WIU during its NCAA Division II era. In 1979, he received Second Team All-America honors from the Associated Press and earned First Team honors following his senior year. During these years, Greco was also voted All-Mid-Continent Conference and named the Leathernecks' Most Valuable Player after the 1980 season. This is Greco's second consecutive year on the College Football Hall Of Fame Ballot.
In 1981, Greco was drafted 72nd overall by the Detroit Lions, becoming only the second offensive lineman selected that year. He played in a total of 45 games for the Lions between 1982 and 1985. In recognition of his achievements, Greco was inducted into the Western Illinois University Athletics Hall of Fame in 2000.
Steve Hatchell, NFF President & CEO, stated: "For more than 65 years, the NFF College Football Hall of Fame has stood as the sport's ultimate archive, honoring those whose impact on the game still echoes today." He added that this year's ballot highlights individuals who excelled on-field and helped define college football.
The ballot has been sent to over 12,000 NFF members and current NFF Hall of Famers for voting. The votes will be counted and submitted to the NFF's Honors Court for deliberation and selection of inductees. The announcement for the class will occur in early 2026.
The official induction ceremony for the class will take place during the 68th NFF Annual Awards Dinner Presented by Las Vegas on December 8, 2026, at Bellagio Hotel & Casino. Inductees will also be honored at their respective schools with an NFF Hall of Fame On-Campus Salute during the season.
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