While the transfer portal had all of Bama on edge, one of their most famous alums, Mark Ingram II delivered some much needed respite. The Alabama great is officially College Football Hall of Fame-bound, becoming the 28th player from Tuscaloosa. He celebrated the milestone with some heartfelt words.

“All glory to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for the platform, the ability, and the strength to walk this journey. Nothing I’ve accomplished is possible without him,” wrote an emotional Ingram on X, resharing the post made by Alabama Football to congratulate him. 

He joined an elite fraternity on Wednesday, earning selection as one of the 22 inductees in the National Football Foundation’s 2026 Hall of Fame class.

Ingram’s dominant 2009 season was one for the history books, as he not only became Alabama’s first Heisman winner by leading the SEC with 1,658 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns, but also swept the major awards, earning consensus All-American honors and being named SEC Offensive Player of the Year.

Over three seasons in Tuscaloosa, he compiled 3,261 rushing yards on 572 carries with 42 rushing touchdowns, showcasing his worth to the program.

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In 2011, the New Orleans Saints drafted him 28th overall in the 2011 NFL Draft. In a matter of serendipity, this was the same pick number the Giants used to draft his father, Mark Ingram Sr., twenty-four years earlier, at the same age. Ingram Jr. finished his rookie season in the NFL with 474 rushing yards and five touchdowns. Over the next eight seasons, he went on to reset team records for career rushing yards and touchdown runs.

Ingram becomes the third Alabama inductee since 2024, following Antonio Langham and Saban. While Ingram’s on-field talent earned him fame, he credits his former coach, Nick Saban, as a constant pillar of support.

His post-football chapter began in 2023 on Fox Sports’ Big Noon Kickoff. It was unfamiliar territory, but the head coach made his player’s debut extra special.

“I’d like to congratulate you on a great career, congratulate you on the opportunity you have as a sports broadcaster,” said Saban on the very first day of Ingram’s broadcasting chapter. “We appreciate you, we love you. You’ve been a great ambassador for the University of Alabama, and God bless you.”

Finding the motivational push that he had been looking for, Ingram added some heartwarming words of his own.

“He always showed me love,” continued Ingram. “He’s always pushed me to be the best I could be both on and off the field.”

Ingram joins Ndamukong Suh and Aaron Donald, two of the most dominant defensive linemen of their generation. The class also features 18 players and four coaches. 

As Ingram celebrates his past achievements, he’s also looking toward the future, particularly that of his son, who is already making waves in the football world.

Mark Ingram II looks beyond his alma mater

Ingram’s son is just seven years old. However, he has already picked up a considerable interest in the sport. The Texas Tech Red Raiders have already extended a scholarship offer to the Alabama legend’s seven-year-old son. Ingram openly showed his interest in the program rather than his alma mater. 

“Come on, man. Awesome,” McGuire replied. “He’s seven. So, hopefully in 10 years, if you’re still doing your thing, I’mma have one ready for you,” Ingram quickly interjected. The Red Raiders’ head coach recognized that talent breeds talent.

“I’mma be there at the Orange Bowl,” Ingram said to McGuire. “I love it, man. The stadium is about 30 minutes south. I’mma come check y’all out with my son.”

While Ingram’s pick for the upcoming Orange Bowl remains to be seen, his own crowning moment is set. The official induction ceremony will take place on December 8, 2026, in Las Vegas, cementing the Alabama legend’s place among college football’s immortals.