May 4, 2025 — New York, NYIn a moment of high recognition and celebration within the world of collegiate athletics, former Texas Longhorns head coach Tom Herman has been awarded the prestigious National Football Foundation (NFF) Gold Medal. The honor, which is the highest bestowed by the NFF, recognizes individuals whose integrity, leadership, and contributions have left an enduring impact on the game of football and society as a whole.
Herman joins an elite group of recipients that includes U.S. Presidents, military leaders, and pioneers in sports and education. The award ceremony, held at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City, highlighted Herman’s influential career, not only as a successful coach but as a leader and mentor to countless young athletes across the nation.
“Tom Herman embodies the core values of college football,” said NFF Chairman Archie Manning. “From his championship-caliber coaching to his relentless focus on player development and academic excellence, he has shown what it means to lead with character and purpose. We are proud to recognize his legacy.”
Tom Herman first rose to national prominence during his tenure as offensive coordinator at Ohio State University, where he played a pivotal role in guiding the Buckeyes to a national title in 2014. He later served as head coach at the University of Houston, where he led the Cougars to a 13-1 record and a Peach Bowl victory in 2015, establishing himself as one of the top young coaches in the country.
In 2016, Herman accepted the head coaching role at the University of Texas, returning to a program steeped in tradition but in search of a revitalizing force. Over four seasons, he amassed a 32-18 record, including a 10-win season in 2018 capped by a Sugar Bowl victory over Georgia. Beyond the numbers, Herman was praised for his strong recruiting, his support for student-athletes’ academic and personal growth, and his leadership through evolving social and cultural challenges in college sports.
Following his time at Texas, Herman continued to contribute to the sport as an analyst and advisor, influencing policy and player welfare initiatives within the NCAA. He has been a vocal advocate for mental health services for student-athletes, increased diversity in coaching, and fair compensation through NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities.
“This award is not just about wins and losses,” Herman said during his acceptance speech. “It’s about the lives touched, the lessons taught, and the love for a game that builds better people. I’m humbled to stand among those who’ve shaped football into a powerful force for good.”
As the NFF Gold Medal recipient, Herman’s legacy is now etched into the highest echelon of college football history. His career continues to serve as a model for aspiring coaches and players alike, emphasizing that success is best measured not only by championships, but by the character and impact
