Second Pro Football Hall of Fame Voter Acknowledges Choosing Robert Kraft Over Bill Belichick

Sports reporter Mike Chappell, who has been covering the Colts for over 40 years, recently shared his thoughts on a tough voting decision. He feels that any choice other than Bill Belichick inevitably revolved around his preference for someone closely linked to Belichick during his New England days.

In Chappell’s words, “As one of 50 voters, I opted for Robert Kraft, the established owner of the New England Patriots.” He clarified, “I didn’t vote against Bill Belichick, the long-time head coach with an impressive track record. It may raise some eyebrows, but I stand by my choice.”

Chappell is now the second of at least 11 voters who chose not to include Belichick on the public ballot, joining Virhe Gregorian from the Kansas City Star.

Like Gregorian, Chappell found the voting process—where committee members had to select up to three names from a pool that included Belichick, Kraft, and veteran candidates such as Ken Anderson and Roger Craig—was a significant factor in his decision.

He noted that he had initially reserved two votes for senior candidates who might be facing their last opportunity for induction before making up his mind between Belichick and Kraft.

Ultimately, Kraft’s contributions were compelling enough for Chappell. He elaborated, “Kraft’s role in establishing the Patriots dynasty that kicked off in 1994, and his crucial involvement in ending a significant work stoppage in 2011 while stressed by his wife’s illness, set the stage for a long period of tranquility in labor relations.” Chappell also pointed out Kraft’s behind-the-scenes efforts to enhance the NFL’s rising television revenue.

Chappell acknowledged a major blemish on Belichick’s record that weighed on his mind—Spygate. “The impact of Spygate remains a concern,” he stated. “In 2007, the NFL penalized the Patriots with a $250,000 fine and stripped them of a first-round draft pick. Belichick himself faced a $500,000 penalty for illicitly videotaping the New York Jets’ signals.”

Despite the scandals, Chappell believes Belichick still deserves a place in the Hall of Fame, just not above Kraft at this time. “This year’s choice doesn’t imply that Belichick is unworthy of the Hall,” he noted. “I’m certain he will be inducted next year. Would it have made his gold jacket less impressive if he had been chosen in his first year of eligibility? Absolutely not.”