Former University of Kentucky football stars Jerry Blanton and Ermal Allen are set to be inducted into the Kentucky Pro Football Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2026. Blanton, a defensive tackle, made history as the first true freshman to start for Kentucky and played a vital role in their 1976 SEC Championship. Allen, a quarterback who also served as a multi-sport athlete, led the team through three winning seasons and later contributed significantly to the Dallas Cowboys. The induction ceremony will take place on June 26 in Lexington.

By the Numbers
  • Jerry Blanton recorded 389 tackles during his college career at Kentucky.
  • Ermal Allen coached at Kentucky from 1948 to 1961 and led the team to 12 winning seasons during his tenure as an assistant coach.
State of Play
  • The Kentucky Pro Football Hall of Fame honors individuals with significant contributions to the sport in the state.
  • The ceremony is open to the public, indicating community interest and support for local sports achievements.
What's Next

The induction of Blanton and Allen will continue the Hall of Fame's tradition of recognizing football excellence and may lead to increased attention on Kentucky's contributions to professional football. As the event approaches, ticket sales and local engagement are likely to grow.

Bottom Line

The recognition of Jerry Blanton and Ermal Allen illustrates the historical and ongoing impact of Kentucky athletes in professional football, emphasizing the state's rich football heritage and commitment to honoring its sports legends.