The Tigers play in NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) as a member of the Southwestern Athletic Conference.

The Tigers, under Hall of Fame coach Eddie Robinson, who guided them to 408 victories in 55 seasons from 1941 to 1942 and 1945 to 1997, were built as a small-school powerhouse with more than 200 players who played professional football.

In fall 1977, the Grambling State Tigers were invited back to Tokyo where they defeated the Temple Owls 35–32 in the inaugural Mirage Bowl game.

They have won ten division titles and reached the SWAC Football Championship Game each time.

Over 100 Grambling State alumni have played in the NFL,[8] including four Pro Football Hall of Famers: Announced schedules as of February 5, 2025.