congratulations: Tennessee Titans key players has just been honored with the Mr. football awards of all time. see More.
Congratulations: Tennessee Titans Key Players Honored with Mr. Football Awards of All Time
In a moment of pride for both the franchise and the football-loving community across the Volunteer State, several key Tennessee Titans players have been recognized with one of the most prestigious honors in the game: The Mr. Football Awards – All-Time Honors. These awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of players who not only left an indelible mark on the high school football scene in Tennessee but who have since gone on to make significant contributions in the NFL — particularly with the Titans.
This celebration shines a light on a lineage of athletic greatness that extends from Friday night lights to Sunday glory. Let’s take a closer look at the impact of these Titans stars who started as hometown heroes and have now been commemorated with the title of Mr. Football All-Time Greats.
Honoring Greatness from the Ground U
The Mr. Football Awards in Tennessee were established to recognize the best high school players in the state. Over the years, the award has been given to athletes who demonstrated elite performance, leadership, and sportsmanship. Now, decades later, the Tennessee Titans organization, in collaboration with the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA), has looked back to celebrate the “All-Time” class — players who not only earned this recognition in high school but have since left a legacy of excellence in professional football.
Several key players in the Titans’ history made that elite list, having proven their mettle from their earliest playing days.
Derrick Henry – A Legend Since Day One
It would be impossible to celebrate Mr. Football without highlighting Derrick Henry, the Titans’ bruising and explosive running back who has become the face of the franchise. Long before he was bulldozing NFL defenders and rushing for over 2,000 yards in a season, Henry was already a phenom at Yulee High School in Florida. While he didn’t play high school ball in Tennessee, the Titans’ honorary committee included him in this special recognition for his unmatched impact on the state’s professional football scene and his incredible consistency, leadership, and work ethic.
Henry holds numerous Titans records, including most rushing touchdowns and single-season yardage, making him a natural candidate for “Mr. Football – All-Time Impact” status.
Kevin Byard – From Local Star to Defensive Commander
Kevin Byard, a Middle Tennessee native and MTSU alum, epitomizes what the Mr. Football legacy is all about. Byard starred at Martin Luther King Jr. Magnet High School in Nashville, where his raw talent and football IQ began to shine through. Overlooked by many national scouts, Byard stayed in-state for college and rose to become one of the most respected safeties in the NFL.
With multiple All-Pro selections and a Pro Bowl appearance, Byard has led the Titans’ defense with consistency and class. He was a natural choice for the Mr. Football All-Time honor due to his inspiring journey from local high school standout to NFL leader.
Taylor Lewan – A Titan in More Ways Than One
Though Taylor Lewan was born and raised outside Tennessee, his decade-long commitment to the Titans has made him an honorary son of the state. The hard-nosed offensive lineman, known for his fierce protection and outspoken leadership, has anchored Tennessee’s offensive line and helped create space for stars like Henry to thrive.
Lewan’s recognition comes as part of the franchise’s expanded Mr. Football All-Time program, which includes those who have had a transformative influence on Tennessee’s football identity, even if they didn’t play high school ball locally. His devotion to the team, as well as his philanthropy off the field, earned him this well-deserved accolade.
Local Heroes: Josh Malone, Jalen Reeves-Maybin, and More
Several other Tennessee-born Titans players also made the list, including Josh Malone, formerly of Station Camp High School, and Jalen Reeves-Maybin, a Clarksville native and former standout at Northeast High School. Both players exemplified the qualities celebrated by the Mr. Football tradition: grit, leadership, and commitment to their communities.
Their progression from high school stars to professionals with the Tennessee Titans provides a blueprint of inspiration for young athletes across the state. These players represent the powerful bond between Tennessee football culture and its NFL team.
More Than Just Awards: Building a Legacy
The Mr. Football All-Time Honors are more than a simple accolade — they represent a celebration of legacy, perseverance, and hometown pride. For the Tennessee Titans, it is a way to pay tribute to those who helped build not only the team but the culture around football in Tennessee.
As part of the celebration, the Titans hosted a special ceremony at Nissan Stadium, inviting youth teams, high school coaches, and families of honorees. Jerseys were retired, speeches were given, and future stars watched in awe as their heroes received one of the highest recognitions in state sports.
Looking Ahead
With this recognition, the Titans are not only celebrating their past but inspiring the next generation. The message is clear: Tennessee is a breeding ground for greatness, and with hard work, discipline, and heart, today’s high school player could be tomorrow’s NFL star.
So, to the honorees of the Mr. Football All-Time Awards — congratulations. You’ve made Tennessee proud, from the first time you put on a helmet to every snap under the bright lights of the NFL. The entire state salutes your journey.
And for the fans: stay tuned, because the next great Mr. Football might already be suiting up at a high school near you.