The University of Texas at Austin Athletics
Hall of Honor
- Induction:
- 2014
- Class:
- 2000
One of the nation's most dominant defensive linemen in his final two seasons at Texas, and among the most decorated Longhorn NFL players ever, Hampton's college and NFL career spanned 17 years. A two-time first-team All-American and Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year as a senior, Hampton was the anchor of one of the nation's top defenses in 1999 and 2000. The Horns ranked sixth nationally in total defense (286.6 ypg) in 1999 and seventh (278.3 ypg) in 2000. A starter in 47 of 54 games as a Longhorn, including the final 38 of his career, Hampton became the first defensive lineman in school history to lead the team in tackles in back-to-back seasons, posting 101 tackles as a junior and 78 as a senior. The big, powerful defensive tackle ranks fifth on the UT all-time list in tackles for loss with 54, 39 of which he registered in his last two years. He finished his Texas career with 329 tackles, 9.5 sacks, 56 QB pressures, nine caused fumbles and three fumble recoveries. Hampton was selected with the 19th pick of the first round by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2001 NFL Draft and quickly became one of the NFL's premier linemen. In 12 seasons, Hampton made five Pro Bowls, tying Earl Campbell, Bobby Layne, Bud McFadin and Tommy Nobis for the most by a Longhorn. A starter in 164 of 173 career NFL games, he helped lead the Steelers to three Super Bowls, winning twice. His durability and success was even more impressive when you consider Hampton retired in 2012 after his third ACL reconstruction surgery. Those surgeries dated back to his first ACL tear, which prematurely ended his sophomore season at Texas.
