2026 tennessee state athletics
Hall of Fame

Larry Dorsey was one of the most dynamic offensive playmakers in Tennessee State football history, starring at wide receiver for legendary head coach John Merritt from 1972-75. A key contributor during one of the program’s most successful eras, Dorsey helped the Tigers maintain their national prominence while establishing himself among the greatest receivers to wear the blue and white. He remains fifth in program history with 26 career touchdown receptions and is tied for sixth all-time with 28 total touchdowns. Dorsey led Tennessee State in scoring during the 1973 season with 13 touchdowns, showcasing the explosive playmaking ability that made him one of the nation’s most dangerous receiving threats. His outstanding collegiate career earned widespread national recognition, including Pittsburgh Courier All-America honors in 1974. As a senior in 1975, Dorsey garnered All-America accolades from the Pittsburgh Courier, Associated Press, United Press International, Sporting News, and Time Magazine, cementing his status as one of the premier receivers in college football. His excellence was further recognized through invitations to the nation’s premier postseason all-star showcases, including the 1976 All-American Bowl in Lubbock, Texas, the East-West Shrine Bowl in Palo Alto, California, the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama, and the prestigious College All-Star Game in Chicago, where he competed against the Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers. Dorsey’s success at Tennessee State led to his selection by the San Diego Chargers in the third round of the 1976 NFL Draft with the 64th overall pick. He played two seasons with the Chargers before concluding his professional career with the Kansas City Chiefs.