Jerry Azumah Received Hall of Fame Plaque at UNH
The former standout running back was honored during the university's homecoming game at midfield.
Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Football
The National Football Foundation presented Jerry Azumah with a Hall of Fame plaque during an on-campus salute in Durham. The ceremony took place at midfield before the University of New Hampshire game against Elon.
Why it matters
The recognition celebrates Azumah's historic collegiate career, which set national standards for rushing production. His legacy at the university remains a benchmark for the football program.
Azumah set FCS records with 6,193 career rushing yards and 8,376 all-purpose yards over 41 total games played. He is the only player in Division I-AA/FCS history to surpass 1,000 rushing yards in four straight seasons.
The players
Jerry Azumah
He is a former collegiate and professional running back who set historic rushing records and played seven seasons for the Chicago Bears.
National Football Foundation
This organization promotes amateur American football and manages the College Football Hall of Fame.
Bill Bowes
He is a former collegiate coach and 2016 inductee into the College Football Hall of Fame.
University of New Hampshire
This public research university in Durham maintains a prominent Division I football program.
The details
Azumah, who played seven years for the Chicago Bears, was honored for his prolific tenure at the university. On the same day, the University of New Hampshire secured a 30-23 victory over Elon during the homecoming event.
Timeline
Azumah received the Walter Payton Award in 1998.
The NFL Pro Bowl selection occurred in 2003.
Azumah joined the UNH Athletics Hall of Fame in 2005.
Bill Bowes was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2016.
The plaque presentation occurred on October 3, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This homecoming ceremony honors the university's most decorated offensive player during a season where the current squad looks to maintain competitive momentum. The tribute connects the program's storied past to its modern performance goals.
The home victory against Elon improves the university's standing in current conference play. Fans and observers can track how these wins influence the team's path toward postseason eligibility.
The takeaway
Honoring historical athletic achievement serves to inspire current student-athletes at the collegiate level. Recognizing individual milestones helps preserve the legacy of a program's most impactful performers.
Further reading
For more news on the university's competitive season, explore our Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Fosters.
