CONGRATULATIONS: Earl Campbell Named One of TIME 100 Most Influential in Sports….

CONGRATULATIONS: Earl Campbell Named One of TIME 100 Most Influential in Sports

AUSTIN, TX — August 5, 2025

Texas football legend Earl Campbell has been named one of the 100 Most Influential People in Sports by TIME magazine, a prestigious honor that recognizes his enduring impact on athletics, community leadership, and cultural legacy.

Campbell, widely known as “The Tyler Rose,” rose to fame in the late 1970s as a powerhouse running back for the University of Texas Longhorns, where he won the Heisman Trophy in 1977. He went on to dominate the NFL with the Houston Oilers, earning NFL MVP honors and five Pro Bowl selections before being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1991.

Now, decades after his final snap, Campbell continues to inspire generations. His inclusion in TIME’s list marks a milestone that cements not just his football greatness but his role as a symbol of resilience, humility, and advocacy.

Beyond the field, Campbell has become a strong voice for players’ health, raising awareness about the long-term effects of football-related injuries. He’s also been active in philanthropic work, particularly through the Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award, which honors the top offensive player in Division I football with ties to Texas.

“Earl Campbell is more than a football hero—he’s a cultural icon whose influence stretches across sport, community, and health,” said TIME sports editor Carlos Menendez. “His story represents the power of perseverance, both on and off the field.”

Campbell’s family and fans across Texas celebrated the news, with tributes pouring in from former teammates, college athletes, and state leaders.

With this recognition, Earl Campbell joins an elite list of figures who have shaped the world of sports far beyond the scoreboard—proving that true greatness stands the test of time.