The Kinder’s Texas Bowl Committee has announced the 2025 class of Gridiron Legends, who will be honored in a pregame ceremony at NRG Stadium on Dec. 27.

The inductees include Heisman Trophy winner and dual-threat quarterback Robert Griffin III, former Texas A&M standout Steve McKinney, Nebraska All-American linebacker Broderick Thomas, College Football Hall of Famer and three-time Super Bowl champion Kevin Smith, Houston sports broadcasting legend Ralph Cooper, and veteran high school coach and athletic director Chris Massey.

The Gridiron Legends program recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to football in Texas at the high school, collegiate, or professional level. The 2025 class joins over 100 previous inductees, including Earl Campbell, Eric Dickerson, Andre Ware, and Bruce Matthews.

Griffin III rose to prominence at Baylor, winning the Heisman Trophy in 2011 before a successful NFL career with the Washington Redskins and later a broadcasting career with ESPN and FOX Sports. McKinney starred at Texas A&M and played in the NFL for the Colts, Texans, Dolphins, and Seahawks. Thomas excelled at Nebraska and in the NFL, including stints with Tampa Bay, Detroit, Minnesota, and Dallas. Smith, a Texas A&M standout, enjoyed a decorated NFL career with the Dallas Cowboys. Cooper has spent more than 50 years as a Houston sports broadcaster, mentoring generations of athletes. Massey has coached and guided Texas high school football programs for decades, earning numerous honors for his leadership and impact on young athletes.

For tickets and more information on the 2025 Texas Bowl featuring the Big 12 versus the SEC, visit kinderstexasbowl.com.