Big news for Oklahoma State University and its football faithful: former offensive lineman Russell Okung just landed on the ballot for the NFF College Football Hall of Fame. The National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame announced the honor, putting Okung in a select group of 80 FBS players up for the 2027 class.
With a career that spanned both college and the NFL, Okung’s nomination is a nod to his skill, leadership, and work ethic. It’s hard not to feel a little proud if you’re an OSU fan.
Russell Okung’s Stellar College Career
Okung’s years at Oklahoma State were packed with highlights. He was a four-year letterwinner from 2006 to 2009 and became the backbone of the Cowboys’ offensive line.
His senior year in 2009 really stands out. Okung earned unanimous first team All-America honors and was named Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year.
He picked up the Jim Parker Trophy that year, too. Plus, he was a finalist for the Outland Trophy and a semifinalist for the Lombardi Award.
Key Achievements and Honors
- Unanimous First Team All-America Selection in 2009
- Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year in 2009
- Jim Parker Trophy Winner
- Finalist for the Outland Trophy
- Semifinalist for the Lombardi Award
Consistency and Dominance on the Field
Okung didn’t just show up—he stuck around and made a difference every game. He started 47 games in a row for Oklahoma State, which is both impressive and, let’s be honest, kind of rare these days.
His blocking helped produce a 1,000-yard rusher every season he played. That’s not something you see very often from an offensive lineman.
And here’s a stat that jumps out: Okung faced off against two NCAA sack leaders, Greg Middleton and Von Miller, and didn’t let either get a sack. That’s shutting down some serious talent.
Team Success and Bowl Appearances
While Okung was on the roster, the Cowboys made it to four bowl games. The 2008 season ended with the team ranked No. 16 in the final AP poll.
That run of success helps explain why Okung is remembered as one of OSU’s all-time greats up front.
Transition to the NFL
After college, Okung was picked sixth overall by the Seattle Seahawks in the 2010 NFL Draft. He made the jump to the pros look easy and stuck around the league for 11 seasons.
He suited up for the Seahawks, Broncos, Chargers, and Panthers. Over the years, Okung racked up plenty of honors and leadership roles.
Professional Achievements
- Pro Bowl Selection in 2012 and 2017
- Super Bowl Champion in the 2013-14 season
- Team captain on every NFL team he joined
- Started and played in 131 NFL games
- Seattle Seahawks Man of the Year in 2015
- Received the NFL’s Ed Block Courage Award in 2014
Off-the-Field Contributions
Okung’s impact goes beyond football fields. He founded the Greater Foundation, a non-profit that opens doors to tech careers for at-risk youth.
He’s also served as Vice President of the NFL Players Association. Okung stands out for his push for economic literacy, famously taking part of his salary in bitcoin and encouraging others to learn about crypto.
Global Impact and Advocacy
His philanthropic work isn’t just local. Okung has focused on education and economic empowerment in Africa, especially in Nigeria and Zimbabwe.
He’s working to bring resources and new opportunities to underserved communities, which says a lot about what he values.
The Hall of Fame Voting Process
The 2027 NFF College Football Hall of Fame ballot is in the hands of over 12,000 NFF members and current Hall of Famers. They’ll vote on who makes the cut.
The NFF Honors Court will then make the final selections. The 2027 Hall of Fame class will be announced in early 2027, with more details to come.
Inductees will be honored at the 69th NFF Annual Awards Dinner in Las Vegas and at their schools with an NFF Hall of Fame On-Campus Salute, presented by Fidelity Investments, during the 2027 season.
Exclusive Club of Hall of Famers
Since Princeton and Rutgers first squared off on November 6, 1869, about 5.86 million people have played college football. Out of all those athletes, just 1,129 players have made it into the NFF College Football Hall of Fame.
That’s less than 0.02% of everyone who’s ever played, which is wild if you stop and think about it. From the coaching side, only 241 individuals have reached this level—so yeah, it’s a pretty rare honor.
Russell Okung landing on the Hall of Fame ballot just feels right, considering everything he did on the field. If you want more details about his nomination or want to see the full list of candidates, check out the official announcement.
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