NFL Hall of Fame Enshrines Gates, Allen, Sharpe, Allen in Canton

The 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony in Canton, Ohio, honored a notably small class of four inductees: tight end Antonio Gates, defensive end Jared Allen, wide receiver Sterling Sharpe, and cornerback Eric Allen. Antonio Gates made history as the first Hall of Famer to never play college football, transitioning from a basketball career at Kent State to NFL stardom. Jared Allen was recognized for his relentless play, signature mullet, and 136 career sacks, while Sterling Sharpe's induction was especially poignant as he overcame recent health issues, including multiple eye surgeries, and joined his brother Shannon as the first brothers enshrined in Canton. Eric Allen received overdue recognition for his consistent excellence as a 1990s cornerback. The ceremony was marked by emotional speeches and personal moments, such as Jared Allen's tribute to his daughters and the acknowledgment of Marv Levy's 100th birthday. This year’s small class reflects a recent trend toward increased selectivity in Hall of Fame inductions.