Polamalu terrorized opposing offenses in his career as a three-year starter at strong safety for the Trojans. A two-time First Team All-American, he tallied 278 tackles, six interceptions, 13 deflections and two fumble recoveries from 1999 to 2002 before being selected in the first round of the 2003 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. The safety announced his retirement in April of 2015, so this year's ballot marks the first year Polamalu is eligible for induction.Â
A two-time First Team All-American (1988-89) and 1989 Jim Thorpe Award winner, Mark Carrier is regarded as one of the best defensive backs in USC's history. Carrier had seven interceptions in 1989, plus 107 tackles and 10 pass deflections. The safety was added to the College Football Hall of Fame ballot in 2012.Â
Leinart was USC's second three-time First Team All-American, leading the Trojans to three consecutive national championship games and winning back-to-back national titles in 2003 and 2004. The 2004 Heisman Trophy winner was 37-2 as a starter and set 16 school records in his career. This is the quarterback's second year on the ballot.Â
In total, the ballot includes 75 players and six coaches from the Football Bowl Subdivision. The announcement of the 2017 Class will be made on January 6, 2017 in Tampa, Florida, three days before the CFP National Championship.Â
