The Pro Football Hall of Fame has announced its list of 26 modern-era semifinalists for the Class of 2026, highlighting a group that includes five high-profile first-time candidates. Among the newcomers are quarterbacks Drew Brees and Philip Rivers, wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, tight end Jason Witten, and running back Frank Gore.
Drew Brees, known for his prolific passing career with the New Orleans Saints, retired after the 2020 season as the NFL’s all-time leader in passing yards and completions at the time. Brees was selected to 13 Pro Bowls over a 20-year career and played a critical role in the Saints’ victory in Super Bowl XLIV.
Philip Rivers, who spent the majority of his career with the San Diego and Los Angeles Chargers before finishing with the Indianapolis Colts, ranks among the top five in league history in both career passing yards and touchdown passes. Rivers was known for his durability, consistency, and leadership over 17 seasons.
Larry Fitzgerald, who played 17 seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, is second all-time in receiving yards and receptions, trailing only Jerry Rice in both categories. The wide receiver was named to 11 Pro Bowls and is widely respected for his sportsmanship and community involvement.
Frank Gore, third in NFL history in rushing yards, had a 16-season career highlighted by his durability and consistency. He amassed over 16,000 rushing yards across stints with the San Francisco 49ers, Miami Dolphins, Indianapolis Colts, Buffalo Bills, and New York Jets.
Jason Witten spent 16 of his 17 NFL seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, finishing among the top tight ends in league history in receptions and receiving yards. He was named to the Pro Bowl 11 times and was known for his reliability and leadership on and off the field.
The 26 modern-era semifinalists were chosen from an initial group of 173 nominees. The list will eventually be narrowed down to 15 finalists before the official Class of 2026 is selected by the Hall of Fame committee. The final inductees will be announced during the NFL Honors event scheduled ahead of Super Bowl LX in February 2026.
