The Heisman Memorial Trophy Award (often known simply as the Heisman Trophy or the Heisman), was named after the former college football coach John Heisman, is awarded annually by the Heisman Trophy Trust to the most outstanding player in collegiate football. Although it is not the only award honoring the best player in college football—the Walter Camp Award and Maxwell Award are also awarded to the "best player"—it is considered the most prestigious. It is awarded in early December before the postseason bowl games begin.

However, winning the Heisman Trophy does not guarantee future success at the NFL level. Only eight winners of the Heisman are in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but four winners have also been named Most Valuable Player in a Super Bowl. Some other winners have gone on to play in other professional sports, including Bo Jackson in baseball and Charlie Ward in basketball.

The trophy itself, designed by sculptor Frank Eliscu, is modeled after Ed Smith, a leading player in 1934 for the now defunct New York University football team. The trophy is made out of cast bronze, is 13.5 inches (34.3 centimeters) tall and weighs 25 pounds (11.3 kilograms).