NFF Gridiron Club of Dallas Celebrates Claude Mathis' Selection to the 2027 College Football Hall of Fame Ballot
DALLAS, TEXAS — The NFF Gridiron Club of Dallas, the North Texas chapter of the National Football Foundation (NFF), proudly recognizes DeSoto High School Head Football Coach Claude Mathis following his selection to the 2027 College Football Hall of Fame ballot, as announced by the NFF on Monday, June 1.
Mathis joins an elite group of former college football players whose accomplishments on the field have earned consideration for one of the sport's highest honors. His inclusion on the ballot places him among the most distinguished players in the history of college football and highlights a legacy that has impacted the game at every level.
Claude Mathis
During his remarkable career at Texas State University (then Southwest Texas State), Mathis established himself as one of the greatest running backs in school and Southland Conference history. A four-time All-American and four-time All-Conference selection, he became Texas State's all-time leading rusher and set numerous school records. He was named Southland Conference Player of the Year twice and remains one of the most accomplished players ever to wear a Bobcat uniform.
Mathis' impact on football did not end with his collegiate playing career. As a coach, he has become one of the most respected leaders in Texas high school athletics. Under his leadership, DeSoto High School has achieved state championship success in 2022, 2023, and 2025, while maintaining a strong emphasis on academic achievement, character development, and community service. His commitment to mentoring young people has earned admiration far beyond the football field.
The NFF Gridiron Club of Dallas has had the privilege of recognizing Coach Mathis' excellence firsthand. He was selected as the Class 6A Coach of the Year following the 2023 season and again following the 2026 season, reflecting the tremendous success and leadership he continues to demonstrate within Texas high school football.
"Claude Mathis represents everything that the National Football Foundation stands for," said Gerald Brence, President of the NFF Gridiron Club of Dallas. "His accomplishments as a player are Hall of Fame worthy, but what makes his story truly special is the impact he has made as a coach, mentor, educator, and community leader. We are proud to support his candidacy for the College Football Hall of Fame."
The National Football Foundation's membership voting process for the 2027 College Football Hall of Fame is currently underway. Members of the NFF have the opportunity to participate in the Hall of Fame voting process and help preserve and promote the values of amateur football.
“Claude Mathis is a class act as a former All-America student-athlete at Texas State, head coach and a person,” said NFF correspondent and NFF Gridiron Club of Dallas member Bo Carter. “His on-field accomplishments at Texas State certainly qualify him for consideration for the NFF College Hall of Fame, and he has been an inspiration to many of us throughout his playing and coaching careers.”
Individuals interested in supporting the mission of the National Football Foundation and becoming eligible to participate in future College Football Hall of Fame voting are encouraged to become members of the organization. When joining, supporters who wish to be affiliated with the NFF Gridiron Club of Dallas should simply enter "Gridiron Club of Dallas" in the Chapter field of the membership application.
Membership information is available at: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/w/Form/40ae15a6-233b-4f9c-ab65-8c6551637380
As the Hall of Fame selection process continues, the NFF Gridiron Club of Dallas encourages football fans, former players, coaches, and supporters throughout Texas to celebrate the extraordinary career and contributions of Claude Mathis—an individual whose impact on the game continues to be felt from the collegiate ranks to the high school sidelines.
About NFF Gridiron Club of Dallas
Founded in 2008, the NFF Gridiron Club of Dallas is one of 120 nationwide chapters of the National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame (NFF). The NFF, founded in 1947 with early leadership from General Douglas MacArthur, legendary Army coach Earl "Red" Blaik, and journalist Grantland Rice, is a nonprofit organization that leverages the power of amateur football to build leaders. With over 120 chapters in 47 states, the NFF oversees initiatives such as the NFF College Hall of Fame, the NFF William V. Campbell Trophy®, the NFF National Scholar-Athlete Awards Presented by Fidelity Investments, Future For Football, and I Played. Learn more about the NFF Gridiron Club of Dallas at www.nffdallas.org and the NFF at www.footballfoundation.org.
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Media Contact
Gary Peek
gpeek@nffdallas.org
972.465.0173