Former Utah football powerhouses, Ron McBride and Roy Jefferson, were named the 2025 inductees to the Utah Football Ring of Honor. The announcement was made by Utah Athletics and will honor the pair at the September 6th home opener against Cal Poly at Rice-Eccles Stadium.
Ron McBride, known affectionately as "Coach Mac," served as Utah's head coach from 1990-2002 and also held the positions of offensive coordinator and offensive line coach at various points from 1977 to 1986. His tenure resurrected a struggling program into one that achieved its first 10-win season in 1994, along with multiple bowl appearances, and a steady stream of NFL draft picks. Jefferson, on the other hand, shone as a wide receiver from 1962-64, leading the team in receiving yards and scoring in multiple seasons, and being part of the historical 1964 Liberty Bowl team. He later translated his collegiate success to a productive 12-season NFL career, including a Super Bowl V victory.
"Ron McBride was announced as a Ring of Honor inductee this past Friday, during an event hosted by the Ron McBride Foundation," according to Utah Utes News. His achievements also extend off the field, with his foundation supporting programs focused on meeting the needs of Utah's most vulnerable children. Jefferson's prowess was not just limited to college ball, as he went on to earn three All-Pro selections and three Pro Bowl appearances, according to Utah Utes News.
The Utah Football Ring of Honor celebrates the highest achievers in the sport, including those who made a significant impact in the community, and features prominent figures like Alex Smith, who was the inaugural inductee in 2024. "He could play almost anywhere and would be a fine back if we chose to use him in that capacity," the late head coach Ray Nagel once said of Jefferson, as reported by Utah Utes News.
