Brent Venables Honored with Prestigious NFF Gold Medal for Outstanding Contribution to Football
Norman, OK — In a moment of well-earned recognition, Oklahoma head football coach Brent Venables has been awarded the National Football Foundation (NFF) Gold Medal, the organization’s highest honor. This prestigious award celebrates individuals who have made a lasting impact on the game of football while embodying the principles of integrity, sportsmanship, and excellence.
Venables, known for his relentless coaching style, deep commitment to his players, and tactical brilliance, joins a legendary list of past recipients that includes U.S. presidents, military heroes, and influential sports leaders. The honor reflects not only his coaching success but also his enduring influence on the lives of student-athletes and the game itself.
Venables has long been respected as one of college football’s premier defensive minds. Before becoming head coach at Oklahoma in 2021, he built an extraordinary legacy as defensive coordinator at Clemson, helping lead the Tigers to multiple national championships. Since taking over at OU, Venables has focused on instilling discipline, accountability, and a culture of toughness and character—hallmarks of his coaching identity.
The NFF cited Venables’ “dedicated service to the development of young men through football” and his “unwavering leadership on and off the field” as key reasons for this year’s Gold Medal recognition.
“It’s incredibly humbling to receive such an honor,” said Venables. “Football has shaped my life, and I’m blessed to have the opportunity to give back to the game and help young men grow not just as players, but as people.”
As Venables continues to shape Oklahoma’s football program and prepare for the challenges of SEC competition, this award affirms his role as one of the sport’s most respected leaders.
