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, honoring his exceptional career in college football coaching and administration. Teaff, known for his transformative tenure as head coach at Baylor University and his subsequent leadership of the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA), joins an elite group of coaching legends recognized for their lifelong dedication to the sport.

Teaff's selection for this prestigious award highlights not only his success on the field but also his significant impact on the lives of young athletes and the broader football community. During his 21-year tenure at Baylor, Teaff led the Bears to two Southwest Conference championships and eight bowl game appearances, dramatically turning around a struggling program. His ability to develop talent was evident in the numerous players he coached who went on to successful NFL careers, including Hall of Famer Mike Singletary.

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 event not only celebrates coaching excellence but also serves a crucial role in raising awareness and funds for the American Heart Association's mission to combat cardiovascular disease and stroke.

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 recognition of Teaff's career aligns with the Association's goal of improving lives through education and research in heart health.

Teaff's impact extended beyond his coaching career at Baylor. As executive director of the AFCA for 21 years, he significantly expanded the organization's membership and influence within college athletics. His leadership in this role earned him recognition as one of the most influential figures in college sports.

The Paul 'Bear' Bryant Lifetime Achievement Award is particularly meaningful as it honors coaches who exemplify integrity, leadership, and dedication to developing character in young athletes. Teaff's selection was based on these criteria, as determined by the Bryant family and voted on by the National Sports Media Association.

Upon receiving the award, Teaff reflected on his journey, crediting his upbringing and early mentors for instilling the values that guided his career. He emphasized the collaborative nature of his success, stating, 'I share this honor with them,' referring to his family, staff, players, and colleagues who supported him throughout his career.

Teaff's commitment to service extends beyond football. He and his wife, Donell, have been actively involved in community organizations, including Camp Success for children with reading disabilities and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. In 2023, they established the Grant Teaff Foundation to support Texas high school students in developing servant leadership and community service skills.

The recognition of Grant Teaff with the Paul 'Bear' Bryant Lifetime Achievement Award underscores the enduring impact of dedicated coaches on the sport of football and the lives of student-athletes. It also highlights the important connection between sports and health advocacy, as exemplified by the American Heart Association's involvement in honoring coaching legends while promoting cardiovascular health awareness.

As the college football community celebrates Teaff's achievements, his legacy serves as an inspiration for current and future coaches to strive for excellence not only in competition but also in character development and community service. The award ceremony, set for January 22, 2025, will not only honor Teaff but also continue to support the crucial work of the American Heart Association in its fight against heart disease and stroke.