Posted on Nov 06

Nine contributors, including Hay, advance to Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026 semifinals

Posted Nov 6, 2025

The Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026 is shaping up to be a significant one, with nine contributors advancing to the semifinal stage of consideration.

Why it matters: This year's selection process highlights the ongoing evolution and recognition of individuals who have significantly impacted the game of football beyond the field.

As the Hall continues to celebrate influential figures, the inclusion of diverse contributions reflects the growth and complexity of modern football.
The ongoing discussions around these nominees serve as a reminder of the historical significance of the NFL and its key players, owners, and strategists.

What's new: After an initial list of 21 nominees was narrowed down by a blue-ribbon committee, nine contributors are now in the running for the prestigious honor.

Among those nominated are iconic figures such as Ralph Hay, who played a critical role in the formation of the NFL and was previously a finalist but fell short of induction.
Additionally, Clark Shaughnessy, recognized as the "father of the T formation" and the three-receiver set, exemplifies the strategic innovation that has shaped offensive schemes in the league.

The big picture: The composition of this year’s semifinals illustrates the balancing act between honoring historical contributions while also acknowledging the modern game's demands.

The selection process will yield 15 modern-era finalists, alongside three seniors and one coach, allowing for a comprehensive view of the sport's legacy.
The transformation of offensive systems—from the traditional pro-style sets to today’s spread and West Coast schemes—can be traced back to foundational contributions from figures like Shaughnessy.

What to watch: With the committee set to choose one finalist next Tuesday, anticipation builds around who will advance to the full selection committee vote early next year.

Between four and eight new members are expected to be inducted, signaling an exciting time for football enthusiasts eager to see their heroes honored.

Yes, but: Despite the progress being made, some notable figures may still face challenges in receiving enough votes to secure induction into the Hall of Fame.

The complexities of voting dynamics can lead to perennial nominees not being recognized, suggesting that even well-deserved contributions can sometimes go unacknowledged due to overcrowded ballots.

The bottom line: As the Pro Football Hall of Fame prepares to recognize its Class of 2026, it serves as a testament to the enduring legacies that shape the NFL and the game of football as a whole.

With impactful figures from the past being acknowledged, fans are reminded of the rich history that continues to influence today's strategies and techniques on the field.

Nine contributors, including Hay, advance to Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026 semifinals

Alex Parker

Posted Nov 6, 2025

The Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026 is shaping up to be a significant one, with nine contributors advancing to the semifinal stage of consideration.

Why it matters: This year's selection process highlights the ongoing evolution and recognition of individuals who have significantly impacted the game of football beyond the field.

As the Hall continues to celebrate influential figures, the inclusion of diverse contributions reflects the growth and complexity of modern football.

The ongoing discussions around these nominees serve as a reminder of the historical significance of the NFL and its key players, owners, and strategists.

What's new: After an initial list of 21 nominees was narrowed down by a blue-ribbon committee, nine contributors are now in the running for the prestigious honor.

Among those nominated are iconic figures such as Ralph Hay, who played a critical role in the formation of the NFL and was previously a finalist but fell short of induction.

Additionally, Clark Shaughnessy, recognized as the "father of the T formation" and the three-receiver set, exemplifies the strategic innovation that has shaped offensive schemes in the league.

The big picture: The composition of this year’s semifinals illustrates the balancing act between honoring historical contributions while also acknowledging the modern game's demands.

The selection process will yield 15 modern-era finalists, alongside three seniors and one coach, allowing for a comprehensive view of the sport's legacy.

The transformation of offensive systems—from the traditional pro-style sets to today’s spread and West Coast schemes—can be traced back to foundational contributions from figures like Shaughnessy.

What to watch: With the committee set to choose one finalist next Tuesday, anticipation builds around who will advance to the full selection committee vote early next year.

Between four and eight new members are expected to be inducted, signaling an exciting time for football enthusiasts eager to see their heroes honored.

Yes, but: Despite the progress being made, some notable figures may still face challenges in receiving enough votes to secure induction into the Hall of Fame.

The complexities of voting dynamics can lead to perennial nominees not being recognized, suggesting that even well-deserved contributions can sometimes go unacknowledged due to overcrowded ballots.

With impactful figures from the past being acknowledged, fans are reminded of the rich history that continues to influence today's strategies and techniques on the field.