Drew Brees, Larry Fitzgerald Headline the 2026 Hall of Fame Class — A Look at Football’s Newest Legends

The Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026 was unveiled during the NFL Honors ceremony on February 5, 2026, in San Francisco. This year's class features five exceptional players whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the game.

🏈 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductees

Drew Brees (Quarterback)

• Teams: San Diego Chargers (2001–2005), New Orleans Saints (2006–2020)

• Achievements:

  • Second all-time in passing yards (80,358), touchdown passes (571), and completions (7,142)

  • 13-time Pro Bowl selection

  • Two-time NFL Offensive Player of the Year

  • Led Saints to Super Bowl XLIV victory, earning Super Bowl MVP honors

Brees overcame early career challenges, including a significant shoulder injury, to become one of the most prolific passers in NFL history.

Larry Fitzgerald (Wide Receiver)

• Team: Arizona Cardinals (2004–2020)

• Achievements:

  • Second all-time in receptions (1,432) and receiving yards (17,492)

  • Sixth in career receiving touchdowns (121)

  • 11-time Pro Bowl selection

  • Member of the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team

Fitzgerald spent his entire 17-year career with the Cardinals, becoming a model of consistency and excellence.

Luke Kuechly (Linebacker)

• Team: Carolina Panthers (2012–2019)

• Achievements:

  • NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2013)

  • Seven-time Pro Bowl selection

  • Five-time First-Team All-Pro

  • 2012 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year

Kuechly was known for his leadership and football intelligence, anchoring the Panthers' defense during a successful era for the franchise.

Adam Vinatieri (Kicker)

• Teams: New England Patriots (1996–2005), Indianapolis Colts (2006–2019)

• Achievements:

  • NFL's all-time leading scorer with 2,673 points

  • Most field goals made (599) and attempted (715)

  • Four-time Super Bowl champion

  • Holds NFL postseason records for points (238) and field goals made (56)

Vinatieri's clutch kicking was instrumental in multiple Super Bowl victories, earning him a reputation as one of the most reliable kickers in NFL history.

Roger Craig (Running Back)

• Teams: San Francisco 49ers (1983–1990), Los Angeles Raiders (1991), Minnesota Vikings (1992–1993)

• Achievements:

  • First player in NFL history with 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in the same season (1985)

  • Four-time Pro Bowl selection

  • Three-time Super Bowl champion with the 49ers

Craig's versatility as both a runner and receiver made him a key component of the 49ers' offensive success during their dynasty years.

🏟️ Enshrinement Ceremony

The Class of 2026 will be officially enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on August 8, 2026, in Canton, Ohio. The ceremony will celebrate the careers and contributions of these five outstanding players.

🗳️ Notable Omissions

Despite their significant contributions to the game, former New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick and owner Robert Kraft were not selected for induction this year. Belichick, an eight-time Super Bowl champion, and Kraft, who has overseen six Super Bowl victories as owner, were both first-time finalists. Their exclusions have sparked discussions about the Hall of Fame's selection process.

The 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame class honors players who have demonstrated excellence, leadership, and a lasting impact on the game of football. Their enshrinement in Canton serves as a testament to their remarkable careers and contributions to the sport.