Irish Legends: Todd Lyght and Manti Te’o Named to 2026 NFF College Football Hall of Fame Class
South Bend is beaming with pride as two of Notre Dame’s most iconic defenders—Todd Lyght and Manti Te’o—are officially set to be immortalized in college football history. The National Football Foundation announced that both Lyght and Te’o will be inducted into the 2026 College Football Hall of Fame, cementing their status as legends not just in South Bend, but across the nation.
Their names are already etched into the fabric of Fighting Irish lore, representing two different eras, but sharing the same legacy of excellence, heart, and leadership. With this latest honor, that legacy expands beyond Notre Dame Stadium to the national stage, where their collegiate greatness will be celebrated forever.
Todd Lyght: The Prototype Defensive Back
A two-time All-American at Notre Dame, Todd Lyght helped anchor the Fighting Irish defense during one of the most dominant stretches in program history. He was a cornerstone of the 1988 national championship team under Lou Holtz and became one of the most feared cornerbacks in the country. Known for his lockdown coverage, smooth footwork, and high football IQ, Lyght finished his career with 11 interceptions and countless pass breakups, earning respect from coaches, teammates, and opponents alike.
His college success paved the way for a first-round NFL selection in 1991, and he went on to enjoy a stellar 12-year pro career, primarily with the Los Angeles Rams, where he became a Super Bowl champion. Lyght also returned to South Bend later in his career as an assistant coach, bringing his knowledge full circle and mentoring a new generation of Irish defenders.
Manti Te’o: The Heart of the 2012 Irish Defense
Few players in modern college football have had the type of magnetic impact that Manti Te’o had during his time at Notre Dame. A native of Hawaii, Te’o came to South Bend with high expectations—and exceeded every one of them. In 2012, he led the Irish to an undefeated regular season and a berth in the BCS National Championship game. That year, Te’o recorded 113 tackles and 7 interceptions, earning him a place as a Heisman Trophy finalist—an almost unheard-of feat for a linebacker.
Te’o was the emotional leader of one of the top defenses in the country, and his legacy extended beyond stats. His commitment to faith, team, and perseverance in the face of personal adversity made him a fan favorite and a national inspiration. His story captivated millions, and now, he’ll be remembered forever as one of college football’s greats.
South Bend’s Salute
Notre Dame fans everywhere are celebrating this rare double-induction. For a program built on tradition and excellence, having two of its defensive giants honored in the same Hall of Fame class is a moment of tremendous pride. From the golden helmets to the echoes they woke, Todd Lyght and Manti Te’o truly embodied what it means to be Notre Dame men.
In 2026, they’ll take their place in Atlanta among the legends of the game. But to Irish fans, they’ve always belonged there.
