Seven University of California, Davis student-athletes have been awarded membership in the 2026 NFF Hampshire Honor Society by the National Football Foundation. This recognition celebrates their academic and athletic achievements, alongside honoring a record 2,596 players from 365 schools nationwide. The NFF Hampshire Honor Society has recognized over 23,500 student-athletes since its inception in 2007. To qualify, players must have maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher throughout their college careers. This milestone showcases both the dedication of these athletes and the overall commitment to academic excellence in college football.

By the Numbers
  • 7 UC Davis football players recognized in 2026 NFF Hampshire Honor Society
  • 2,596 total honorees, the largest group in NFF's history
  • 23,568 student-athletes recognized since the program started
Yes, But

While this recognition highlights academic success, some might argue that greater focus should be placed on the balance of athletics and academics, as the pressures of competitive sports can impact student performance.

State of Play
  • UC Davis football team transitions to the Mountain West Conference in 2026-27.
  • Record number of honors reflects growing emphasis on academic achievement in college football.
What's Next

The focus on academic excellence is expected to strengthen further as more programs promote the significance of GPA alongside athletic performance. Additionally, the shift to the Mountain West Conference may enhance opportunities for visibility and recruitment for UC Davis athletes.

Bottom Line

UC Davis's acknowledgment of these seven student-athletes underscores the importance of academic performance in collegiate sports and enhances the university's reputation for nurturing scholar-athletes who excel both on and off the field.