Grant Teaff Honored with Paul 'Bear' Bryant Lifetime Achievement Award

The American Heart Association has announced Grant Teaff as the recipient of the 2025 Paul 'Bear' Bryant Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his exceptional contributions to college football both on and off the field. Teaff, renowned for his tenure as head football coach at Baylor University and his subsequent role as executive director of the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA), joins an elite group of coaching legends honored for their career accomplishments and positive influence on young athletes.

Teaff's coaching career at Baylor University was marked by remarkable success, transforming a struggling program into a formidable force in the Southwest Conference. During his tenure, he led the Bears to two conference championships, eight bowl game appearances, and six top-25 finishes. His impact extended beyond the field, as he mentored numerous players who went on to successful NFL careers, including Mike Singletary and Walter Abercrombie.

The Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Memorial Hermann Health System, will be presented at the annual Paul 'Bear' Bryant Coach of the Year Awards ceremony in Houston, Texas. This prestigious recognition not only celebrates Teaff's coaching legacy but also serves a greater purpose in supporting the American Heart Association's mission to combat cardiovascular disease and stroke, the leading causes of death globally.

Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, emphasized the significance of the award, stating, 'Coach Teaff has touched the lives of countless young people, and we congratulate him on this accomplishment.' The ceremony serves as a platform to honor coaching excellence while raising awareness and funds for critical scientific research in heart health.

Teaff's influence on college football extends beyond his coaching career. As executive director of the AFCA for 21 years, he oversaw significant growth in the organization's membership and was instrumental in building its national headquarters. His leadership in this role earned him recognition as one of the most influential figures in college athletics.

The impact of Teaff's career is reflected in his numerous accolades, including induction into eight halls of fame and recognition as National Coach of the Year in 1974. His commitment to service and community involvement, exemplified by his work with organizations like Camp Success and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, underscores the holistic approach to leadership that the Lifetime Achievement Award celebrates.

Teaff's selection for this honor was based on criteria including integrity, leadership, and the ability to inspire and develop character in young athletes. His acceptance of the award highlights the collaborative nature of his success, as he acknowledged the role of family, staff, players, and administrators in his career achievements.

The Paul 'Bear' Bryant Awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award, play a crucial role in the American Heart Association's efforts to fund innovative research and improve heart health outcomes. As the Association celebrates its centennial year, recognizing coaches like Teaff not only honors their contributions to football but also supports the ongoing fight against heart disease.

This year's awards ceremony, scheduled for January 22, 2025, will feature additional honors including the Heart of a Champion, Fan Favorite, Newcomer Coach of the Year, and the 2024 Paul 'Bear' Bryant Coach of the Year. The event promises to be a celebration of coaching excellence and a powerful reminder of the impact sports can have in advancing public health initiatives.