The NFL today announced the 2024 Pro Football Hall of Fame finalists.
Antonio Gates, Devin Hester, and Julius Peppers headline the list 15 candidates released on Thursday, according to Nicki Jhabvala of the Washinton Post:
Hester has been named a finalist for the third time in as many years since he became eligible. The legendary Bears return specialist practically changed the game when he entered the NFL in 2006, setting records for both kickoff and punt returns throughout his career.
The former All-Pro holds records for most career return touchdowns (20), most career punt return touchdowns (14), and most return touchdowns in a single season (6). He also made both the 2000s and 2010s All-Decade Teams. Hester played for the Bears from 2006 to 2013.
Gates played 16 years, all with the Chargers, in San Diego and after the team’s move to Los Angeles. He finished with most touchdowns for a tight end in NFL history (116). He was a three-time All-Pro and made eight straight Pro Bowls from 2004-11.
In his first year of eligibility for the Hall, Peppers has an excellent chance at induction, based on his incredible career. He finished with 159.5 sacks, fourth on the all-time list behind only Bruce Smith, Reggie White, and Kevin Greene.
He’s also the only player in league history with at least 100 sacks and 10 or more interceptions (11), and he’s second all-time on the forced fumbles list with 52.
The rest of the list features NFL greats Eric Allen, Jared Allen, Willie Anderson, Jahri Evans, Dwight Freeney, Rodney Harrison, Torry Holt, Andre Johnson, Fred Taylor, Reggie Wayne, and Darren Woodson
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