“Auburn Pride Lives Within Me Wherever I Go,” Jackson Says as He Commits to the Future of Tigers Football with Record Contribution
In a moment that will go down in Auburn University history, legendary two-sport athlete and Auburn football icon Bo Jackson has made a groundbreaking donation of $18.2 million toward a new stadium project, showing his unwavering commitment to the future of Auburn Tigers football. The donation—announced Tuesday afternoon in a press release from the university—will go toward renovating and expanding Jordan-Hare Stadium, with a vision to elevate the Tigers’ facilities to a premier national standard.
Jackson, widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes in American sports history, said the decision to contribute came from his “lifelong bond” with Auburn.
“Auburn pride lives within me wherever I go,” Jackson said. “This university shaped who I am—not just as an athlete, but as a man. I owe it to Auburn to give back, and I’m proud to be part of building a future where our football program continues to grow, inspire, and dominate.”
The donation is the largest individual gift ever made by a former Auburn athlete to the athletics program, and it comes at a time when Auburn is striving to reestablish itself as a consistent powerhouse in the Southeastern Conference under Head Coach Hugh Freeze. Freeze, who took the reins of the program in 2022, has been working diligently to revitalize the Tigers’ recruiting and competitiveness on the national stage.
“This is a transformational moment for Auburn Football,” Freeze said in a statement. “Bo Jackson is the ultimate ambassador for Auburn—his generosity, his loyalty, and his vision for the future mean everything to our players, staff, and fan base. We are honored to carry his legacy forward.”
The new stadium project, according to athletic director John Cohen, will include enhanced player facilities, updated fan experiences, improved locker rooms, expanded seating, and a state-of-the-art weight and recovery center. Portions of the new facility will bear Jackson’s name in recognition of his contribution and his lasting impact on the university.
Jackson’s time at Auburn from 1982 to 1985 is still remembered with awe. He won the Heisman Trophy in 1985, rushed for over 4,000 yards during his college career, and went on to play both professional baseball and football—becoming a global icon in the late 1980s and early 1990s. His mythical athleticism and humble character have made him a revered figure not only in Auburn circles but across the nation.
Beyond athletics, Jackson has also been involved in numerous philanthropic initiatives, particularly focused on youth development and education. His gift to Auburn marks another chapter in his commitment to supporting young people.
“It’s not just about football,” Jackson added. “It’s about creating opportunities for these young men to grow, learn, and succeed on and off the field. Auburn gave me that. Now, it’s my turn to give it back.”
University President Dr. Christopher B. Roberts praised Jackson for his lifelong support and said this donation sets a new precedent for alumni involvement.
“Bo Jackson exemplifies everything Auburn stands for—excellence, integrity, and commitment. His legacy will forever be a pillar of Auburn’s history and future.”
Construction on the stadium project is expected to begin in early 2026, with completion targeted by the 2028 season.
With this monumental donation, Bo Jackson has once again proven that legends never leave their roots—and that the spirit of Auburn burns bright in those who wear the orange and blue with pride.
