The College Football Hall of Fame has announced its inductees for 2024, and an Ohio State football legend is finally getting recognized. Chris Ward was a two-time All-American offensive tackle for the Buckeyes from 1975 through 1977 and was drafted fourth overall in the 1978 NFL Draft by the New York Jets.
In addition to being named All-American twice, the Dayton, Ohio, native was first-team All-Big Ten all three seasons he started for Ohio State. Ward was a part of four Big Ten championships that Ohio State earned. He led the way for Archie Griffin during his second Heisman campaign, and will be the 28th former Buckeye player to enter the College Football Hall of Fame.
Ward also had a great NFL career playing seven seasons total, six with the Jets and his last season with the New Orleans Saints. He earned a spot on the All-Rookie team in 1978.
Nominees must have earned first-team All-American honors to be eligible and ten years removed from their last collegiate game as well as no longer active as a professional.
Two-time @OhioStateFB All-American OT Chris Ward will be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame this year as part of the 2024 class. Ward played on teams that won four consecutive Big Ten championships or co-championships. @NFFNetwork pic.twitter.com/O3qQIvBHwG
— Jerry Emig (@BuckeyeNotes) January 8, 2024
Ward went on to be involved in ministry after his football career and established Ward International, an afterschool program to help at-risk youth.
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