Drew Brees, Larry Fitzgerald among 26 Hall of Fame semifinalists

The Pro Football Hall of Fame has announced 26 modern era semifinalists for the Class of 2026. Notable first-year eligible players include quarterback Drew Brees and wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, along with Philip Rivers, Frank Gore, and Jason Witten. Lomas Brown and Kevin Williams are also first-time semifinalists, despite retiring in 2002 and 2015, respectively. Four players who were finalists last year—Willie Anderson, Torry Holt, Luke Kuechly, and Adam Vinatieri—automatically advanced to the semifinalist stage again. The list also includes returning semifinalists like Eli Manning, Fred Taylor, Steve Smith, and others. The selection committee will narrow the group to 15 finalists next month, who will join senior, coaching, and contributor candidates for the final selection meeting next year.