Chargers legends Drew Brees and Philip Rivers head 2026 Hall of Fame candidates

Justin Herbert is off to the hottest start of any quarterback in Los Angeles Chargers' history. And that's saying something, especially considering that two of the franchise's all-time best might wind up in the Pro Football Hall of Fame's next class.

The Hall of Fame has announced its initial 128 modern-era players nominated for the Class of 2026. Headlining the list of first-time candidates: Drew Brees and Philip Rivers.

Rivers, who played for the Chargers 2004-2019, is the franchise's all-time leader in every passing category including completions (4,908), yards (59,271) and touchdowns (397). He made the Pro Bowl eight times before playing his final season with the Indianapolis Colts and retiring in 2020.

Brees, who played for the franchise 2001-2005, is sixth on the Chargers' passing list. He played his final 15 seasons with the New Orleans Saints, finishing as the NFL's second all-time leader in completions, passing yards and touchdowns behind only Tom Brady.

Other repeat nominees with ties to the Chargers include fullback Lorenzo Neal and safety Rodney Harrison.

In the next step in the selection process, a Screening Committee will reduce the list to 50 in mid-October. That group will be trimmed to 25 and then 15 will considered finalists discussed for induction during Super Bowl LX in February.