Atlanta, GA (July 29, 2025) – In a move that underscores its ongoing commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), the Black College Football Hall of Fame (BCFHOF) has announced a new partnership with the John Madden Foundation. The Foundation joins as an Official Partner of the Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl, bringing with it essential support for HBCU students and reinforcing both organizations’ dedication to education and opportunity.
“John Madden was a true champion of the game and an advocate for Historically Black Colleges and Universities,” said Doug Williams, Super Bowl XXII MVP and BCFHOF Co-Founder. “We’re truly grateful for this support, which allows us to continue opening doors of opportunity for HBCU students.”
As part of the collaboration, the John Madden Foundation will fund the newly renamed John Madden HBCU Caravan. This initiative will offer charter bus transportation for 800 students from 16 HBCUs—located within a six-hour radius of New Orleans—to attend the Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl Career Fair, the largest of its kind in the country.
“My father was a strong believer in the mission and impact of HBCUs,” said Mike Madden, son of John Madden and board member of the John Madden Foundation. “He had the honor of coaching Black College Football Hall of Fame legends like Art Shell, Willie Brown, Henry Lawrence, and Raymond Chester. I know he would be incredibly proud to support such a meaningful and impactful initiative.”
The Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl is a postseason all-star game showcasing the top 100 NFL draft-eligible players from HBCUs. Taking place during Black History Month on February 21, 2026, in New Orleans, the event includes a week-long celebration featuring the nation’s largest HBCU Career Fair. More than 1,500 students from 58 HBCUs and over 100 employers are expected to attend. The game will be broadcast live on NFL Network.
Founding Partners of the event include Allstate, adidas, Allstate Sugar Bowl, Coca-Cola, Coors Light, Delta Airlines, New Orleans Saints, Patrick Mahomes and 15 and the Mahomies Foundation, and Riddell.
For more information, visit HBCULegacyBowl.com or follow @HBCULegacyBowl on social media.
