In a surprising turn of events, ESPN has named Ted Hendricks, the legendary defensive lineman from the University of Miami, as the greatest college football player of all time. This decision places Hendricks ahead of other iconic figures such as Tim Tebow, Bo Jackson, Herschel Walker, Barry Sanders, and Earl Campbell.
Hendricks, known as “The Mad Stork” for his towering 6-foot-7 frame and relentless play, had a remarkable college career from 1966 to 1968. He was a three-time All-American, earning consensus first-team honors in his final two seasons. During his tenure at Miami, he amassed 327 total tackles, the most ever by a Hurricanes defensive lineman, and recovered 12 fumbles. In 1968, he was named the UPI National Lineman of the Year and finished fifth in Heisman Trophy voting, a rare feat for a defensive player.
Beyond his college accolades, Hendricks’s legacy is cemented by the annual Ted Hendricks Award, established in 2002, which honors the nation’s top defensive end.
While Hendricks’s achievements are undeniable, ESPN’s selection has sparked debate among fans and analysts. Many expected offensive powerhouses like Barry Sanders, who set 34 NCAA records during his 1988 season at Oklahoma State, or Herschel Walker, the 1982 Heisman Trophy winner from Georgia, to top the list.
Nonetheless, ESPN’s choice underscores the significant impact of defensive players in college football history. Hendricks’s dominance on the field and his lasting influence on the game make a compelling case for his recognition as the greatest of all time. 
