Netflix and ESPN Announce Premiere Date for Powerful John David Crow Documentary: “The First Heisman”
College Station, TX — July 11, 2025
In an emotional collaboration between Netflix and ESPN Films, a powerful new documentary honoring Texas A&M’s first-ever Heisman Trophy winner, John David Crow, is set to premiere on August 23, 2025, just days before the start of the college football season. The film, titled “The First Heisman”, will explore the iconic legacy of Crow, a trailblazer who redefined college football and became a national symbol of grit, toughness, and honor.
Crow, who won the Heisman Trophy in 1957 under the legendary coach Paul “Bear” Bryant, remains one of the most revered figures in Aggie history. Known for his versatility as a halfback, safety, and return specialist, Crow’s impact on the game extended well beyond the field. His leadership, integrity, and commitment to excellence helped shape the ethos of Texas A&M football for generations.
The documentary promises exclusive interviews with former teammates, NFL greats, and Aggie icons, including Johnny Manziel, Von Miller, and Dat Nguyen, as well as never-before-seen archival footage of Crow’s Heisman-winning season. Narrated by award-winning actor Matthew McConaughey, the film traces Crow’s journey from a small-town athlete in Louisiana to becoming a national phenomenon and the pride of Aggieland.
Netflix released a powerful teaser featuring a grainy clip of Crow’s 1957 Heisman acceptance speech overlayed with modern images of Aggie fans cheering at Kyle Field. The words “Before there was Manziel… there was Crow” flash across the screen, setting the tone for an emotional and inspiring tribute.
The premiere will take place at a red-carpet screening at Kyle Field, with family members, former players, and high-profile guests expected to attend. The documentary will be available globally on Netflix following the premiere, with ESPN set to air a follow-up special featuring an in-depth roundtable discussion on Crow’s legacy.
As anticipation builds, one thing is certain — “The First Heisman” is not just a film. It’s a moment of pride, history, and reverence for one of college football’s true legends.
