The College Football Hall of Fame just got a little tougher with its latest addition. Former Tennessee Vols standout and Jacksonville Jaguars star John Henderson is officially part of the 2025 College Football Hall of Fame class.
Long before Henderson became a fan favorite in Duval County, he was a dominant force on Rocky Top. A two-time All-American, Henderson racked up 20.5 sacks during his college career and solidified himself as one of the most dominant defensive tackles in SEC history.
Speaking about the honor, Henderson admitted, “I don’t think it really sunk in, but it is getting there.”
For Henderson, this moment has been a long time coming. “I know I’m going to get in there one day, but I don’t want to be dead when I get it. I want to be there now, I want to enjoy it,” he said.
The big man’s resume speaks for itself. He’s already been inducted into the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and the Tennessee Athletics Hall of Fame. Now, the College Football Hall of Fame has made room for Henderson, solidifying his legacy as one of the all-time greats.
Henderson reflected on the work it took to reach this point. “It was always hard work. It was always a challenge,” he said. Those challenges included overcoming setbacks early in his college career and consistently pushing himself to improve.
Even as Henderson’s career has taken him far beyond Knoxville, Tennessee, his time at the University of Tennessee remains a major part of his story. “Are the words to ‘Rocky Top’ just ingrained in your memory now?” he was asked.
“All the time, all the time,” he said with a smile. “I’m going to always remember ‘Rocky Top.’”
And it’s clear Rocky Top will always remember him.
The 2025 Hall of Fame class is packed with football legends, including Urban Meyer, Nick Saban, Michael Vick, and Michael Strahan. Henderson admitted he felt a bit starstruck when he saw the list of names.
“I’m looking at it—Strahan and Vick—I got to make sure I take a picture with them when I get there,” Henderson said. “I’m starstruck right now.”
While Henderson may be in awe of his fellow inductees, there’s no doubt he belongs alongside them. His dominance on the field and his ability to inspire teammates and fans alike have cemented his place in college football history.
Now, as Henderson joins the Hall of Fame, fans across the country—and especially on Rocky Top—are celebrating his well-deserved recognition.
“It’s great, and I am so humble and grateful for it,” Henderson said.
The 2025 College Football Hall of Fame Class will officially be inducted during the 67th NFF Annual Awards Dinner Presented by Las Vegas on Dec. 9, 2025, at Bellagio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.
Copyright 2025 by WJXT News4JAX – All rights reserved.