NASHVILLE, TN – February 7, 2025 – Former Vanderbilt University football star, the late Jacque Sumpter “Jack” Jenkins, has been named to the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025. Jenkins career at Vanderbilt saw him lead the Commodores in scoring for two seasons. The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, sponsored by the Tennessee Lottery, celebrates the state’s rich sports heritage and honors those who have made a lasting impact within their communities.
“Jack Jenkins was a dominant force for Vanderbilt football during a pivotal era and went on to represent Tennessee with distinction at the professional level,” said Brad Willis, Executive Director of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame. “His leadership and impact on the game solidify his place among Tennessee’s all-time greats. We are honored to welcome him to the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025.”
A Texas native, Jenkins was a standout fullback and kicker for Vanderbilt University in the early 1940s. Known for his powerful running and blocking, he was a key contributor for the Commodores, leading the Black and Gold to an 8-2 record in 1941. Jenkins set scoring records that stood for decades at Vanderbilt with most points in a season at 90, and most points in a career with 147. Jenkins was named SEC Player of the Year in 1941 and All-SEC First-Team in 1941 and 1942. Jenkins was also named the Jacobs Blocking Trophy winner in 1941 and 1942. Despite the challenges of the war era, Jenkins’ talent on the field earned him recognition as one of Vanderbilt’s top players of the time.
Following his time at Vanderbilt, Jenkins was selected tenth overall in the 1943 NFL Draft by Washington. After serving in the military during World War II, he played professional football before returning to Tennessee, where he spent several years on the Vanderbilt coaching staff. Jenkins passed away in 1982 in Florence, Alabama.
Jenkins joins Doug Mathews, Ron Slay, Chris Woodruff, Deon Grant, Derrick Mason, Stephen Gostkowski, LarryKenon, Priscilla Gary Sweeney, the late Ronnie Robinson, the late Phillip Clark, Tony Allen, Elston Turner, George Pitts, and Bob Brown as announced members of the Class of 2025. The full 2025 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Induction Class will be released in the coming weeks.
The 2025 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony, presented by the Tennessee Titans, will take place on Saturday, July 19th, at the Omni Nashville Downtown. Tables and sponsorships are available for purchase now at www.tshf.net.
About the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame
Established in 1966, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, sponsored by the Tennessee Lottery, enshrines and honors athletes, teams, coaches, sports writers and sports administrators who have made an impact on the history of Tennessee sports. The Hall serves as a platform to connect athletes, coaches, sports fans, and supporters by acknowledging life achievements implemented through sports. The Hall celebrates athletes of all forms, from all across the state. Additionally, Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame aspires to educate youth about the importance of healthy habits and the positive impact they have on lifestyle choices. For more information, visit www.tshf.net.
About the Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation
The Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation operates entirely from the revenue it generates through the sale of its products. Since January 20, 2004, the Lottery has raised more than $7.6 billion to fund designated education programs, including college grants, scholarships, Drive to 55 initiatives and after-school programs. In addition to the educational beneficiaries, players have won more than $20.8 billion in prizes and Lottery retailers have earned more than $2 billion in commissions. For additional information, visit tnlottery.com and follow the TEL on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.
