The University of Miami has long been synonymous with college football greatness. With a tradition steeped in excellence, the Hurricanes have produced a litany of outstanding players who have left indelible marks on the sport. In 2026, three Miami legends have officially earned their place on the National Football Foundation (NFF) College Football Hall of Fame ballot, joining the ranks of the most elite athletes in the history of the game. This milestone not only honors their individual brilliance but also shines a spotlight on the storied legacy of Miami football.
The NFF College Football Hall of Fame ballot is one of the most prestigious recognitions a former collegiate football player can achieve. Candidates selected for the ballot have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and sportsmanship during their college careers and have usually contributed significantly to the game beyond their playing days. Being named to the ballot signals that these athletes are among the best to ever lace up their cleats, placing them in elite company that includes Heisman Trophy winners, All-Americans, and NFL Hall of Famers.
The three Hurricanes who have earned this honor for the 2026 ballot represent different eras of Miami football, but each shares a common thread: dominance on the field, leadership, and a lasting impact on the sport. Their inclusion on the Hall of Fame ballot is a testament to their excellence and the high regard in which they are held by coaches, peers, and fans alike.
One of the most celebrated names to make the 2026 ballot is linebacker Ray Lewis, widely regarded as one of the most ferocious and cerebral defenders in college football history. Lewis’s career at Miami from 1993 to 1995 was marked by relentless intensity, unmatched instincts, and a remarkable ability to lead. His presence on the field was commanding, and he quickly established himself as the backbone of the Hurricanes’ defense. Lewis earned All-American honors and was a finalist for the Butkus Award during his time in Coral Gables. His college success propelled him to a legendary NFL career, but it was his foundation at Miami that truly shaped the Hall of Famer we know today. His leadership on and off the field continues to inspire new generations of players.
Another iconic Hurricane earning a spot on the ballot is running back Edgerrin James. Known for his smooth running style and consistent production, James was a pivotal figure in Miami’s offense from 1996 to 1998. His agility, vision, and power made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and he finished his collegiate career with impressive rushing yards and touchdowns that set Miami records at the time. James’s impact extended beyond stats; he was a team captain and a player who elevated the play of those around him. His work ethic and humility made him a beloved figure in Miami football lore. After college, James’s NFL success further cemented his legacy, but the foundation of his greatness was built during those crucial Hurricanes years.
Rounding out the trio of Miami legends on the 2026 NFF ballot is quarterback Ken Dorsey. Dorsey’s time at Miami, from 1999 to 2002, was marked by poise, precision, and an uncanny ability to perform under pressure. As the leader of a Hurricanes offense that often featured some of the most dynamic players in college football, Dorsey’s calm demeanor and sharp decision-making were key to Miami’s success. He set multiple school records for passing yards and touchdowns and was a Heisman Trophy finalist. Dorsey’s ability to dissect defenses and manage games helped lead Miami to a national championship in 2001. His collegiate accomplishments, combined with his later roles as a coach and mentor, highlight the breadth of his contributions to the game.
The inclusion of these three players on the 2026 ballot is more than a recognition of individual talent. It is also an acknowledgment of the University of Miami’s sustained excellence as a football powerhouse. The Hurricanes have consistently produced players who excel at the highest levels, and these three represent the best of what Miami football has to offer. Their careers embody the grit, determination, and skill that have made the Hurricanes a perennial contender on the national stage.
Ray Lewis, Edgerrin James, and Ken Dorsey each played critical roles during some of Miami’s most memorable seasons. Lewis was a defensive stalwart during the Hurricanes’ 1995 national championship run, providing the kind of leadership and intensity that set the tone for the entire team. James was a dynamic offensive weapon who helped Miami maintain its status as a top program in the late 1990s. Dorsey, meanwhile, was the steady hand guiding the Hurricanes to a national title and multiple ACC championships in the early 2000s. Together, their careers span a decade of Hurricanes football that remains one of the most successful and influential periods in the program’s history.
Their nomination to the NFF College Football Hall of Fame ballot also invites reflection on the broader impact these players have had beyond the gridiron. Ray Lewis’s leadership qualities and charitable efforts have made him a respected figure in communities nationwide. Edgerrin James’s commitment to youth development and his work with underprivileged children underscore his dedication to giving back. Ken Dorsey’s transition to coaching and mentoring young quarterbacks shows how his influence extends well beyond his playing days. Each of these athletes exemplifies the kind of character and commitment the NFF seeks to honor.
The Hall of Fame ballot process is highly selective and competitive, with thousands of former players considered each year. Being named to the ballot is the first step toward eventual induction, a process that involves a thorough evaluation of candidates’ collegiate achievements, contributions to the sport, and personal integrity. The selection committee, comprised of coaches, media, and former players, carefully weighs each candidate’s credentials before narrowing the field. For Miami, having three players on the ballot simultaneously is a significant achievement that underscores the program’s historic contribution to college football.
Fans and alumni of the University of Miami will undoubtedly celebrate this milestone, as it reinforces the Hurricanes’ legacy and provides an opportunity to relive some of the greatest moments in school history. It also shines a light on the incredible talent that has passed through Coral Gables, serving as inspiration for current players and recruits. The recognition these legends receive is a reminder that Miami football continues to be a beacon of excellence in college sports.
As the 2026 College Football Hall of Fame ballot process unfolds, all eyes will be on these three Hurricanes and their journey toward one of college football’s highest honors. Their stories serve as a powerful testament to what can be achieved through talent, perseverance, and leadership. Whether they are ultimately inducted into the Hall of Fame, their inclusion on the ballot is already a victory and a tribute to their remarkable careers.
In the annals of Miami football, names like Ray Lewis, Edgerrin James, and Ken Dorsey will forever shine brightly. Their achievements and contributions have helped define the program and inspire future generations of Hurricanes. As they step onto the Hall of Fame ballot, they do so not only as individual legends but as representatives of the University of Miami’s proud football tradition — a tradition built on excellence, passion, and a relentless pursuit of greatness.
The journey to the Hall of Fame is never easy, but these three Miami legends have shown they possess the skill, heart, and legacy worthy of this ultimate recognition. Their stories will continue to resonate, reminding fans and players alike why Miami football holds a special place in the history of college football.
