Larry Fitzgerald named a Hall of Fame finalist

It was not a surprise, but former legendary Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald is a step closer to making the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The 15 finalists for the 2026 class were announced on Tuesday, and Fitzgerald made the cut.

It is his first year of eligibility.

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He is one of four former players who are finalists in their first year of eligibility, including quarterback Drew Brees, running back Frank Gore and tight end Jason Witten. Fitzgerald and Brees are expected to make it on their first ballot.

What is next in the Hall of Fame process?

As one of 15 finalists, the selection committee will meet and vote, with the 2026 Hall of Fame Class will be revealed during the NFL Honors ceremony on Feb. 5.

How many players can be selected?

The selection committee may vote for up to five players, and those getting at least 80% of the vote will be selected.

Five others are candidates under the seniors category, coaches and contributors.

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Current selection process bylaws stipulate that between four and eight new members shall be selected between the modern-era candidates and other catregories.

Who are the Hall of Fame finalists?

15 modern-era player finalists

• OT Willie Anderson

• QB Drew Brees

• G Jahri Evans

• WR Larry Fitzgerald

• RB Frank Gore

• WR Torry Holt

• LB Luke Kuechly

• QB Eli Manning

• OLB/DE Terrell Suggs

• K Adam Vinatieri

• WR Reggie Wayne

• DT Kevin Williams

• TE Jason Witten

• S Darren Woodson

• OL Marshall Yanda

Other categories

• QB Ken Anderson

• RB Roger Craig

• DE L.C. Greenwood

• Bill Belichick (coach)

• Robert Kraft (contributor)

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This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: Larry Fitzgerald named a Hall of Fame finalist