Throughout the summer months leading up to the Tennessee State University Athletics Hall of Fame Banquet on Aug. 27, Tennessee State Athletics will highlight the members of the Hall of Fame Class of 2026. This distinguished group of former student-athletes, coaches, administrators and contributors helped shape the proud tradition of Tiger athletics through championship performances, individual achievements and lasting contributions to the university. Their stories reflect the excellence, perseverance and impact that have defined Tennessee State Athletics across generations.

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Robert Woods | Football | 1970-72

Robert Woods was one of the premier players in Tennessee State football history, earning national recognition during the Tigers' dominant run in the early 1970s. A standout offensive lineman, Woods was named to the 1972 Pittsburgh Courier, Associated Press and Black Mutual All-America teams, establishing himself as one of the nation's top small-college players. His stellar senior season led to selection in the 1973 NFL Draft, where the New York Jets chose him in the second round with the 38th overall pick. Woods played five seasons with the Jets from 1973-77 before concluding his professional career with the New Orleans Saints from 1977-80, becoming one of the many Tennessee State greats to successfully transition from collegiate excellence to the National Football League.

TSU HOF Class of 2026 Profiles
Brent Alexander
Frankie Allen
Catherine Katrelle Armwood
Terry Blocker
Curtis Burke
Clairwin Dameus
Oliver Davis
Larry Dorsey
Johnny "Ballpark" Franks
Greg Goodwin
Kimberly Graves
Sylvester Hicks
Tim Horton
Eric Lindsey
Granville "Sonny" Lyons
Jeffery McMillian
Theresa Phillips
Samuel G. Puryear Jr.
Gregory "Greg" Robinson
Candace Saleaumua
Dr. Catana Starks
William "Bill" Thomas
Dominique Ward-Johnson
Lawrence Washington