Meet the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026: Brees, Fitzgerald, Craig, Kuechly, and Vinatieri
The Pro Football Hall of Fame announced its Class of 2026, which includes quarterback Drew Brees, receiver Larry Fitzgerald, running back Roger Craig, linebacker Luke Kuechly, and kicker Adam Vinatieri. The Selection Committee met virtually in January to conduct the annual vote. Brees, Fitzgerald, Kuechly, and Vinatieri are the modern-day candidates, while Craig is the senior candidate. Former Patriots coach Bill Belichick and owner Robert Kraft did not make the cut this year. Eli Manning also failed to be elected for the second consecutive year. The new members will be enshrined on August 8 in Canton.
Drew Brees had a successful 20-year NFL career, finishing second in all-time passing yards and touchdown passes. He won a Super Bowl with the Saints in 2009 and made 13 Pro Bowl appearances. Larry Fitzgerald, drafted third overall in 2004, spent his entire career with the Cardinals and ranks second all-time in catches and receiving yards. Luke Kuechly, a standout linebacker for the Panthers, won Defensive Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year honors. Adam Vinatieri, known for his clutch kicks, holds several NFL records for points and field goals made.
Roger Craig, the only senior candidate inducted, was a versatile player for the 49ers, becoming the first player to achieve 1,000 rushing and receiving yards in a single season. He won three Super Bowls and ranks 49th in league history for scrimmage yards. The Class of 2026 brings the total Hall of Fame membership to 287, with the induction ceremony set for August.