The anticipation is building as we are one step closer to finding out who will be inducted into the 2026 College Football Hall of Fame. And for fans of the Oklahoma State Cowboys, there is even more excitement as nine former players have been nominated for this prestigious honor.
The list of nominations was recently released, and it includes some of the most talented and beloved players to ever wear the orange and black. These players have left a lasting impact on the college football world and have solidified their place in the history of the sport.
Among the nominees are some familiar names, such as Barry Sanders, Thurman Thomas, and Dez Bryant. These players have already made a name for themselves in the NFL, but their contributions to the Cowboys’ football program cannot be overlooked.
Barry Sanders, who is widely considered one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, had a remarkable college career at Oklahoma State. In 1988, he set the single-season rushing record with 2,628 yards and won the Heisman Trophy. His elusive running style and incredible speed made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Thurman Thomas, another NFL legend, also had a stellar college career at Oklahoma State. He was a two-time All-American and finished his career with over 4,500 rushing yards and 43 touchdowns. Thomas was a key player in the Cowboys’ success in the late 1980s and early 1990s, and his nomination for the Hall of Fame is well-deserved.
Dez Bryant, who played for the Cowboys from 2007-2009, was a dominant wide receiver and a game-changer on the field. He holds the school record for most receiving yards in a single season with 1,480 yards and was a first-team All-American in 2008. Bryant’s electrifying plays and impressive stats make him a strong contender for the Hall of Fame.
But it’s not just these three players who have been nominated. The list also includes other notable names such as Leslie O’Neal, Rashaun Woods, and Brandon Weeden. These players have all made significant contributions to the Cowboys’ football program and have left a lasting impact on the sport.
Leslie O’Neal, a defensive end who played for the Cowboys from 1982-1985, was a two-time All-American and holds the school record for most sacks in a single season with 16. He went on to have a successful NFL career and is now being recognized for his outstanding college achievements.
Rashaun Woods, a wide receiver who played for the Cowboys from 2000-2003, was a two-time All-American and holds the school record for most receiving yards in a career with 4,414 yards. His impressive stats and clutch performances make him a strong candidate for the Hall of Fame.
Brandon Weeden, a quarterback who played for the Cowboys from 2010-2011, had a record-breaking senior season with 4,727 passing yards and 37 touchdowns. He led the Cowboys to a Big 12 Championship and a Fiesta Bowl victory, solidifying his place in the school’s history.
The other nominees, Josh Fields, Kevin Williams, and Russell Okung, also had outstanding college careers and have been recognized for their contributions to the Cowboys’ football program.
Being nominated for the College Football Hall of Fame is a tremendous honor and a testament to the hard work and dedication of these former players. It is a recognition of their exceptional talent and the impact they had on the game of football.
As we eagerly await the announcement of the inductees, let us celebrate the achievements of these nine former Cowboys and the legacy they have left behind. They have not only made their mark on the football field but have also represented the university with pride and class.
To all the nominees, we say congratulations and thank you for the memories. You have made us proud to be Cowboys, and we will be cheering for you as you take this next step towards the Hall of Fame. Go Pokes!
