NASHVILLE, TN – April 16, 2026 – One of the most accomplished tight ends in NFL history, Jason Witten, has been named to the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2026. Sponsored by the Tennessee Lottery, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame honors individuals whose achievements have made a lasting impact on the history of sports in the state of Tennessee.
“Jason Witten represents everything great about Tennessee football,” said Brad Willis, Executive Director of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame. “From his roots in Elizabethton to his standout career at the University of Tennessee and his remarkable success in the NFL, Jason has built a legacy defined by excellence, toughness, and leadership. We are proud to welcome him into the Class of 2026.”
A native of Elizabethton, Witten starred at the University of Tennessee, where he transitioned from defensive end to tight end and quickly became one of the Southeastern Conference’s most dependable offensive players. As a junior in 2002, he earned First-Team All-SEC honors and helped lead the Volunteers with his versatility and physical style of play.
Witten was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the third round of the 2003 NFL Draft and went on to build one of the most distinguished careers in franchise and league history. Over 17 NFL seasons, he was selected to 11 Pro Bowls, earned All-Pro honors, and became the Cowboys’ all-time leader in receptions and games played. Known for his durability and consistency, Witten finished his career with more than 1,200 receptions and 13,000 receiving yards, ranking among the most productive tight ends in NFL history.
In addition to his on-field accomplishments, Witten was honored with the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in 2012, recognizing his commitment to community service and leadership off the field through initiatives such as the Jason Witten SCORE Foundation.
“Jason’s impact goes far beyond statistics,” Willis added. “He has been a role model for generations of athletes, demonstrating what it means to lead with character, give back to others, and represent your home state with pride.”
Following his playing career, Witten transitioned into coaching, continuing to influence young athletes and contribute to the game of football.
Witten joins Monica Abbott, Jennifer Azzi, Matt Cain, Jerry Caldwell, Mike Clary, the late Reggie Cobb, AntoneDavis, Kermit Davis, Marc Gasol, Bubba Luckett, Charles McRae, Ron Mercer, David Price, and Pete Weber as announced members of the 2026 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Induction Class.
The 2026 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, presented by the Tennessee Titans, will be held Saturday, July 11, 2026, at the Omni Nashville Downtown. Ticket and sponsorships are available now at TSHF2026.givesmart.com.
About the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame
Established in 1966, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, sponsored by the Tennessee Lottery, honors athletes, teams, coaches, sports writers, and sports administrators who have made a meaningful impact on the history of Tennessee sports. The Hall serves as a platform to connect athletes, coaches, fans, and supporters while celebrating achievements shaped through sports. The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame also seeks to educate youth on the importance of healthy habits and the positive role sports play in developing character and leadership. For more information, visit www.tshf.net.
About the Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation
The Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation operates entirely from the revenue generated through the sale of its products. Since January 20, 2004, the Lottery has raised more than $8.1 billion to fund designated education programs, including college grants, scholarships, Drive to 55 initiatives, and after-school programs. In addition to educational beneficiaries, players have won billions in prizes, and Lottery retailers have earned billions in commissions. For more information, visit tnlottery.com and follow the Tennessee Education Lottery on Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram.
