The Pro Football Hall of Fame has announced 15 modern-era finalists for its 2026 class, including first-time eligible stars Drew Brees, Larry Fitzgerald, Frank Gore and Eli Manning. These players need 80% of the vote from selectors to earn induction in Canton, Ohio. Voters can select up to five modern-era candidates, with additional votes for senior, coach and contributor finalists.
The Hall of Fame's selection process advanced 15 former NFL players as modern-era finalists for the class of 2026, putting them one step from football immortality. Among them are four first-time eligibles: quarterback Drew Brees, who retired as the NFL's all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns before Tom Brady surpassed him; wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, second all-time in receptions and receiving yards; running back Frank Gore, third in career rushing yards with 16,000; and quarterback Eli Manning, celebrated for two Super Bowl upsets over the Patriots.
Other notable finalists include offensive tackle Willie Anderson, a four-time Pro Bowler; guard Jahri Evans, a four-time All-Pro and key to the Saints' 2009 Super Bowl; wide receiver Torry Holt, a leader of the Rams' 'Greatest Show on Turf'; linebacker Luke Kuechly, the 2015 Defensive Player of the Year; edge rusher Terrell Suggs, the 2011 Defensive Player of the Year with 139 sacks; kicker Adam Vinatieri, the all-time leading scorer and four-time Super Bowl champion; wide receiver Reggie Wayne, an elite Colts receiver; defensive tackle Kevin Williams, a six-time Pro Bowler; tight end Jason Witten, the Cowboys' career reception leader; safety Darren Woodson, a three-time All-Pro; and offensive lineman Marshal Yanda, an eight-time Pro Bowler who anchored the Ravens' 2012 Super Bowl team.
In parallel categories, senior finalists are Ken Anderson, Roger Craig and L.C. Greenwood; coach finalist is Bill Belichick; and contributor finalist is Robert Kraft. Each requires 80% approval for enshrinement. The full class will be revealed on February 5, 2026, at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco, marking another chapter in the Hall's legacy of honoring the game's greats.