The American Heart Association has revealed the eight finalists for the 2025 Paul "Bear" Bryant Coach of the Year Award, marking the 40th anniversary of this honor that celebrates coaching contributions enhancing college football for athletes and fans. This award distinguishes itself as the only major college football coaching honor presented after the national champion is determined, with voting conducted by the National Sports Media Association, the Bryant Awards' Executive Leadership Team, and the Bryant Family.
Three Texas-based coaches are among the finalists, highlighting the state's significant presence in college football leadership. Mike Elko of Texas A&M University and Joey McGuire of Texas Tech University, who earned the Bear Bryant Big 12 Conference Coach of the Year honor, represent major Texas programs. Their inclusion underscores Texas's role as a powerhouse in developing coaching talent that impacts both regional and national football landscapes.
The award presentation holds particular significance for Texas beyond sports recognition, as it serves the American Heart Association's mission to raise awareness and critical funds for cardiovascular health. The award honors the legacy of coaching legend Paul "Bear" Bryant, who died from a heart attack in 1983, just 28 days after his final victory and retirement. The organization presents the awards annually to celebrate coaching excellence while advancing its health initiatives, creating a meaningful connection between athletic achievement and public health advocacy.
The winner will be announced during a ceremony at the Post Oak Hotel in Houston, Texas, on January 21, 2026, broadcast on CBS Sports Network. The event, presented by Houston-based Memorial Hermann Health System, brings national attention to Texas as a hub for major sporting events and health initiatives. This Houston ceremony positions Texas at the center of a national conversation about coaching excellence and cardiovascular health awareness, potentially boosting local hospitality and media industries while spotlighting Texas-based healthcare leadership.
The event will also recognize two special honorees: Phillip Fulmer, former University of Tennessee head coach, will receive the 2026 Paul "Bear" Bryant Lifetime Achievement Award, while the late Mike Leach, innovator of the Air Raid offense, will be honored posthumously with the 2026 Paul "Bear" Bryant Heart of a Champion Award presented by St. Luke's Health. Additional information about the awards is available at https://bryantawards.org.
For Texas businesses and organizations, this announcement represents multiple economic and reputational opportunities. The selection of Houston as the ceremony location brings national media attention and visitor spending to the region, while the involvement of Memorial Hermann Health System and St. Luke's Health showcases Texas healthcare institutions on a national platform. The recognition of Texas coaches reinforces the state's position as a leader in college football development, potentially influencing recruiting, alumni engagement, and institutional prestige for Texas universities. This convergence of sports, health advocacy, and Texas leadership creates a unique opportunity for cross-sector impact that extends beyond the football field to public health awareness and economic activity throughout the state.
