Quarterback Drew Brees and wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald have been nominated for the 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame, marking their first year of eligibility. Both players have left an indelible mark on the NFL, with Brees ranking second all-time in passing yards and touchdowns, while Fitzgerald stands second in career receptions and receiving yards.
They are among 128 modern-era nominees, including eleven other players also in their first year of eligibility. Notable nominees this year include quarterbacks Philip Rivers and Alex Smith, tight ends Greg Olsen and Jason Witten, running backs Frank Gore and LeSean McCoy, offensive linemen David DeCastro and Maurkice Pouncey, defensive linemen Geno Atkins and Jurrell Casey, and linebacker Thomas Davis.
Selection Process and Returning Finalists
A screening committee will narrow down the nominees to 50 candidates in October, followed by a reduction to 25 and then 15 finalists. This final group will be voted on during the selection meeting prior to the Super Bowl in February 2026. Four players, Willie Anderson, Torry Holt, Luke Kuechly, and Adam Vinatieri, have already secured their spots in the final 15 after reaching the last seven in the 2025 class. Other returning finalists include Eli Manning, Fred Taylor, Steve Smith Sr., Reggie Wayne, Jahri Evans, Marshall Yanda, Terrell Suggs, and Darren Woodson.
In addition to the 15 modern-era finalists, the selection committee will consider three seniors, one coach, and one contributor for the Class of 2026. Between four and eight new members will be elected, following last year’s small class of only four, the fewest in two decades.
Brees and Fitzgerald’s Remarkable Careers
Drew Brees finished his career with 80,358 passing yards and 571 touchdown passes, placing him second only to Tom Brady. Brees began his career with the San Diego Chargers before joining the New Orleans Saints in 2006. He played a pivotal role in revitalizing New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, leading the team to its first Super Bowl title following the 2009 season. Brees was named the MVP of that game, defeating Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts.
Throughout his illustrious career, Brees made the Pro Bowl 13 times and received the AP Offensive Player of the Year award in 2008 and 2011. He was also recognized as an All-Pro in 2006 and a second-team All-Pro four times.
Larry Fitzgerald spent his entire 17-season career with the Arizona Cardinals, being drafted third overall in 2004. His impressive statistics include 1,432 receptions and 17,492 receiving yards, ranking him second all-time behind Jerry Rice. Fitzgerald consistently excelled, surpassing 1,000 receiving yards nine times, tied for the fourth most in NFL history. He was instrumental in leading the Cardinals to their only Super Bowl appearance following the 2008 season, where he set single-season postseason records with 546 receiving yards and seven touchdown catches.
The upcoming selection process for the Hall of Fame promises to be competitive, with both Brees and Fitzgerald as standout candidates for induction. Their remarkable careers and contributions to the sport have solidified their status among the NFL’s all-time greats.
