Who should be enshrined in 2027 Pro Football Hall of Fame?

After a stacked 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame class that featured former quarterback Drew Brees, former kicker Adam Vinatieri, former wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, former running back Roger Craig and former linebacker Luke Kuechly, it is time to look ahead to next year's class.

The 2027 first-time eligible players include notable names such as Ben Roethlisberger, Antonio Brown, Adrian Peterson, Rob Gronkowski and Cam Newton. 

Who deserves to be inducted next year? 

1. Rob Gronkowski (tight end)

Former New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers Tight-End Rob Gronkowski is one of the greatest pass catchers in NFL history. The 2010 pick has earned four First-Team All-Pro selections along with having led the NFL in touchdowns (2011). The 6-foot-6, 265-pound freight train showcased excellent pass-catching ability and elite run blocking across his prolific career. Gronkowski's size and physicality allowed him to consistently rack up yards after the catch, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

The four-time Super Bowl champion holds records such as having the most receiving touchdowns as a tight end (17) in league history. There is no doubt "Gronk" will be a first-ballot Hall of Famer in 2027. 

2. Adrian Peterson (RB)

Former Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson is one of the greatest rushers in league history. In fact, Peterson is one of only 16 running backs to win the coveted NFL MVP award (2012). Peterson rushed for 2,097 yards during the 2012 campaign and was only 9 yards away from surpassing Eric Dickerson's record (2,105). 

Nonetheless, Peterson earned seven All-Pro selections along with having led the NFL in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns across multiple campaigns. 

The violent, downhill powerhouse should grace a gold jacket in Canton in 2027. 

3. Antonio Brown (WR)

Former Steelers wideout Antonio Brown had a first-ballot-worthy career despite his various controversies. 

Brown was drafted in the sixth round by Pittsburgh in 2010 and became arguably the organization's greatest receiver. Brown earned five consecutive All-Pro selections and led the league in total receptions and receiving yards twice each. In fact, Brown shares an NFL record by having the most consecutive seasons with at least 100 catches in a campaign (6). 

Brown capped off his Hall of Fame-caliber career with a Super Bowl victory alongside the Buccaneers in 2021, as he contributed five receptions and a touchdown in the victory. 

4. Andrew Whitworth (OL)

The former Rams and Bengals offensive lineman was touted for his elite durability throughout his 16-year career. Whitworth retired as the oldest NFL tackle in NFL history and the oldest to win a Super Bowl. 

The 6-foot-7, 336-pound lineman earned three All-Pro selections along with four Pro Bowl nods. Whitworth's capability to demonstrate elite pass-protection along with superb footwork to hinder pass rushers well into his late 30s and early 40s is impressive. 

5. Eli Manning (QB)

The former Giants quarterback was eligible in 2025 after retiring back in 2019. Yes, Manning didn't earn any MVP's or All-Pro awards throughout his 16-year NFL journey. Manning also finished with a 117-117 record as a starter for the Giants. 

However, Manning's postseason success should be the driving force behind getting inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame. Manning won two Super Bowls against arguably the greatest quarterback of all time, Tom Brady, and the New England Patriots. The former No.1 pick is one of only six quarterbacks to win multiple Super Bowl MVP awards in league history (two)

Manning has already waited two years to get into the Hall of Fame, and 2027 should finally be the year his wait comes to an end.