Trailblazer Charles Follis, First African American Professional Football Player, Nominated to the National High School Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026

Brook Park, OH – The National High School Football Hall of Fame is proud to announce that Charles W. Follis, the first African American professional football player, has been nominated to its prestigious Class of 2026. Known as “The Black Cyclone,” Follis’ nomination honors his extraordinary athletic talent and historic role as a pioneer who broke barriers in the early days of American football.

Born in 1879, Follis starred at Wooster High School in Ohio, where his speed, toughness, and leadership on the field made him a local legend. In 1902, he signed with the Shelby Blues of the Ohio League—two decades before the formation of the NFL—making history as the first African American professional football player. His groundbreaking career paved the way for generations of athletes who would follow in his footsteps.

Hall of Fame Founder and CEO LaMont Robinson expressed pride in the nomination:

The final list of inductees will be unveiled at a national press conference on December 3, 2025, in Brook Park, Ohio. The official induction ceremony for the Class of 2026 will be held on July 11, 2026, where honorees, their families, and football fans will gather to celebrate the game’s history and legacy.

“Charles Follis’ story is not just about football—it’s about breaking barriers,” said Len Krichko, Executive Director of the National High School Football Hall of Fame. “His nomination ensures that his pioneering legacy will continue to inspire young athletes across the nation.”

This year’s list of nominees includes legendary players such as Terry Bradshaw, Tom Brady, Jerome Bettis, Doug Flutie, Robert Griffin III, Michael Irvin, Jason Kelce, Dan Marino, Joe Namath, Cam Newton, Ozzie Newsome, Ben Roethlisberger, Deion Sanders, Emmitt Smith, Bruce Smith, Thurman Thomas, and Johnny Unitas, alongside coaches, contributors, and media figures who have left an enduring impact on the sport.

For more information about the National High School Football Hall of Fame, the Class of 2026, and upcoming events, please visit www.nhsfootballhof.com or contact 313-669-8388.

Denise Plante