Bay County football legend Matt Hardin has died, his family announced Thursday. Hardin, a celebrated figure in the local football community, passed away on November 5, 2026, according to a report by the Panama City News Herald.
Details surrounding the cause of death were not immediately released. Hardin's legacy in Bay County football spans decades, where he was widely recognized for his contributions as a player, coach, and mentor to generations of athletes.
The Panama City News Herald reported the news early Thursday morning. Tributes from former players, colleagues, and community members have begun to surface, highlighting Hardin's lasting impact on the sport in the region.



