Kraft, Belichick are Hall of Fame finalists, could be inducted together, say voters
The New England Patriots’ Robert Kraft and Bill Belichick have both been named finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame, marking a significant moment in their storied careers.
Why it matters: This recognition highlights the monumental impact Kraft and Belichick have had on the NFL, particularly through their partnership that transformed the Patriots into a dynasty.
- Kraft has owned the team since 1994 and overseen a period that includes six Super Bowl victories.
- Belichick, now eligible for induction, boasts a historic coaching record with 333 wins, second only to Don Shula.
What’s new: Both Kraft and Belichick are being honored simultaneously, adding an intriguing narrative to their legacies.
- Kraft, at 84 years old, is a first-time finalist after 14 years of campaigning.
- Belichick, aged 73, is also recognized in his first year of eligibility, further solidifying his status as one of the game's most successful coaches.
By the numbers: The statistics speak volumes about their contributions to the game.
- Belichick has achieved 12 Super Bowl appearances and holds the record for the most division titles (17) by any head coach in NFL history.
- Under Kraft's ownership, every home game has sold out, contributing to the franchise's valuation of $7 billion.
Yes, but: Despite their accolades, the path to induction is never guaranteed, as Hall of Fame voting can be unpredictable.
- A veteran Hall of Fame voter expressed the excitement around their potential induction and noted that only one could be inducted in any given year, adding to the drama of the situation.
- As Polian remarked, "There's no box that Robert Kraft doesn't check to get into the Hall of Fame," underscoring the competitive nature of the selection process.
What’s next: The official Hall of Fame voting will take place on January 13, with the announcement of inductees occurring before the Super Bowl in February.
- Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Kraft and Belichick can join the ranks of football legends in Canton.
The bottom line: Whether or not they are inducted together, Kraft and Belichick’s legacies are already cemented in NFL history, and their contributions will continue to influence the league for years to come.
- Belichick himself acknowledged the risks taken when he joined the Patriots, highlighting the unique journey both men have navigated in building a championship-caliber franchise from the ground up.
