Pro Football Hall Of Fame Announces 13 First-Time Candidates

The official winners will be announced next August.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame announced 13 first-time candidates among the 128 modern-era nominees for the class of 2026.

Among them are quarterbacks Drew Brees and Philip Rivers, who both previously played for the San Diego Chargers. Former Chiefs player, Alex Smith joins them as the third new quarterback nominee.

Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald is also among the first-time candidates, as are running backs Frank Gore and LeSean McCoy.

Other nominees include tight ends Jason Witten and Greg Olsen, defensive linemen Geno Atkins and Jurrell Casey, and more.

The official winners will be announced next August.