Pro Football Hall of Fame Announces 2025 Candidates

The Pro Football Hall of Fame has announced its 50 modern-era candidates for the 2025 class, reducing the original list of 167 nominees. Among the candidates, two-time Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning, former Defensive Players of the Year Luke Kuechly and Terrell Suggs, and tight end Antonio Gates stand out. The full selection committee will next narrow the candidates down to 25 semifinalists in about four weeks, with 15 finalists to be chosen before the Super Bowl. Only players receiving 80% of the votes will be inducted, with between three and five modern-era candidates expected to be selected. Additionally, there will be votes for three seniors, one contributor, and one coach, allowing one to three from those categories to join the Hall. Notable first-year eligible candidates also include Adam Vinatieri and Marshawn Lynch, while Hines Ward, James Harrison, and Gary Anderson are among the Steelers advancing in the voting process.