DeMeco Ryans might never make it to Canton, Ohio, for his efforts as a player with the Houston Texans, but he could represent the University of Alabama in Atlanta, Ga.
The former Alabama Crimson Tide star and future 2006 Defensive Rookie of the Year was named to the 2026 College Football Hall of Fame ballot The 2026 NFF College Football Hall of Fame Class will be officially inducted on Dec. 8, 2026.
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Ryans dominated the college ranks during his time in Tuscaloosa. He was a 2005 unanimous First Team All-American and won the Lott Trophy during his final season. The defender was also an All-SEC first-team honoree, a two-time All-SEC second-team honoree and won the SEC Defensive Player of the Year Award in 2005.
The Texans landed Ryans with the No. 33 overall pick in the 2006 draft and never looked back. He became a captain in 2007 after winning the DPOY, and was considered the leader in the clubhouse until his trade to Philadelphia in 2012. Over his decade-long career in the league, Ryans totaled 970 tackles, 72 tackles for loss, seven interceptions and 13.5 sacks. He was a two-time Pro Bowl representative as well.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans HC DeMeco Ryans named to 2026 College Football HOF ballot
