The NFL Hall of Fame selection committee have announced the 26 modern era semi-finalists that are nominees for possible induction into the Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.
The committee will select 15 finalists before the final inductees will be revealed during Super Bowl week.
In their first year of eligibility; quarterback Drew Brees, quarterback Philip Rivers, wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, tight end Jason Witten, and running back Frank Gore have made the list.
After being one of the final seven last year, Willie Anderson, Torry Holt, Luke Kuechly, and Adam Vinatieri are automatically in the top 15.
Returning from last year are Eli Manning, Fred Taylor, Steve Smith Sr, Reggie Wayne, Jahri Evans, Marshall Yanda, Terrell Suggs, and Darren Woodson.
Lomas Brown, Kevin Williams, Hines Ward, Richmond Webb, Steve Wisniewski, Rodney Harrison, Earl Thomas, Vince Wilfork, and Robert Mathis.
Along with the modern era players, three seniors, one coach, and one non player contributor will also be under consideration for induction into the Hall of Fame.
In the smallest class in 20 years, last year only four people were inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Drew Brees and Larry Fitzgerald are considered the front runners in the 2025 class of nominees.
Brees is second only to Tom Brady in passing yards with 80,358 and 571 touchdowns passes. In 2009, Brees led the New Orleans Saints to their first Super Bowl win and earning the MVP in the process.
Spending his entire career with the Arizona Cardinals, Larry Fitzgerald is second only to Jerry Rice with 1,432 catches and 17,492 receiving yards during his 17 year career. He also had nine seasons with at least 1,000 receiving yards.
Philip Rivers went to the Pro Bowl eight times and had 63,440 passing yards. In 2013 the AP named him Comeback Player of the Year.
Tight end Jason Witten had 1,228 catches and 13,046 yards for a ranking of second all time.
Running back Frank Gore ranks third all time with 16,000 rushing yards. He had nine seasons of at least 1,000 rushing yards.