As we near the midpoint of the season, the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s induction process is also taking shape. On Wednesday, the finalists for the 2026 class will be revealed, including players who are eligible for the first time.
The roster will ultimately be trimmed to 15 candidates, from which four to nine will be selected for enshrinement in Canton. Some names have already surfaced as 2026 finalists, with a few having been considered before in 2025. It’s worth noting that players like Willie Anderson, Torry Holt, Luke Kuechly, and Adam Vinatieri will receive automatic bids this year.
With 11 more slots available, let’s evaluate this year’s eight first-ballot candidates and discuss their chances for induction. A critical part of their credentials is being named a first-team All-Pro.
8. Maurkice Pouncey, C — Pittsburgh Steelers
Resume: 2-time All-Pro, 9-time Pro Bowl.
Maurkice Pouncey has made a significant impact as a center. Although he began his career a bit late, his contributions were vital in helping Ben Roethlisberger deal with interior pressure.
His position on this list doesn’t undermine his qualifications for Canton, but it may hint at the timing of his potential induction. Generally, it seems offensive linemen take a while to be recognized, and Pouncey might not get his chance until Jason Kelce is honored in the coming years.
7. Greg Olsen, TE — Carolina Panthers
Greg Olsen’s career may not fully meet Hall of Fame criteria, primarily due to its brevity. Still, from 2014 to 2016, he was among the top performers at tight end, achieving three straight 1,000-yard seasons.
The key question is whether another tight end might eclipse Olsen’s accomplishments. So, why does he sit in seventh? It seems the perception of his broadcasting career could influence voters positively.
6. LeSean McCoy, RB — Philadelphia Eagles/Buffalo Bills
Resume: 2-time Champion, 2-time All-Pro, 6-time Pro Bowl
LeSean “Shady” McCoy was recognized for his versatility. Whether powering through the middle or catching passes, he excelled with both the Eagles and Bills, wrapping up his career with two Super Bowl wins with the Chiefs and another with the Buccaneers, despite not being a focal point on either team.
In terms of running backs in Canton, there’s no doubt McCoy should be represented. The challenge lies in the long list of candidates, and his credentials may not stand up as strongly as others.
5. Frank Gore, RB — San Francisco 49ers
Frank Gore, known as a modern iron man, maintained productivity well into his mid-30s, something rare for running backs. Over a remarkable 16 seasons, he secured the third spot in all-time rushing yards, following Emmitt Smith and Walter Payton.
But, well, it’s unclear if he’ll be a top contender for immediate enshrinement. His statistics might not be enough to elevate him ahead of Adrian Peterson or others, potentially leading to a longer wait.
4. Jason Witten, TE — Dallas Cowboys
Resume: 2-time All-Pro, 11-time Pro Bowl
Jason Witten is considered one of the most well-rounded tight ends in NFL history. While not particularly flashy, he was remarkably effective, contributing both as a receiver and a blocker in a Cowboys offense that was often changing.
Playing alongside Tony Romo, Witten had several seasons exceeding 1,000 yards, serving as the dependable target every team needs.
In comparison to the other tight ends, Witten’s credentials appear more robust, likely giving him an edge over Olsen.
3. Philip Rivers, QB — San Diego Chargers
For a while, Philip Rivers seemed to be on course to inherit the title of “greatest QB to never win a ring,” previously held by Dan Marino. His career, which kicked off as part of the notorious Eli Manning trade, saw concerns about his unique delivery transform into appreciation for his prowess at the position.
Rivers’ resume is less impressive primarily because he played in an era dominated by Tom Brady and Peyton Manning. Still, he concluded his career with over 63,000 passing yards and 400 touchdowns.
Is that postseason record enough to keep him out of Canton? After all, Marino and Tarkenton were both quarterbacks who never made it to a Super Bowl.
2. Larry Fitzgerald, WR — Arizona Cardinals
Resume: 1 All-Pro, 11 Pro Bowls
In an often self-centered position, Larry Fitzgerald stood out as a true professional, spending his whole career with the Cardinals despite their frequent changes in coaches and quarterbacks.
His ranking in career receiving yards speaks volumes about his skill, showcasing his ability to elevate those around him. Fitzgerald rarely needed to make spectacular plays; his route running and position were always on point.
It’s almost a certainty that Fitzgerald will find himself in Canton on the first ballot.
1. Drew Brees, QB — New Orleans Saints
Resume: 1x Champion, 1x All-Pro, 13x Pro Bowl
Brees is in the conversation alongside Brady and Payton, which says a lot about his legacy.
He’s one of only two quarterbacks, with Tom Brady, to finish with more than 80,000 passing yards and is second all-time in passing touchdowns. The Saints, much like many teams during the Brady and Manning eras, struggled to find their footing, but they ultimately triumphed at least once.
When it comes to Hall of Fame voting, it seems quite certain that Brees will earn his rightful place in Canton.
