Eli Manning, Antonio Gates, and Reggie Wayne headline the 2025 Hall of Fame finalists, showcasing their remarkable careers in the NFL. This trio of athletes exemplifies excellence, each leaving an indelible mark on the game.
Eli Manning, the former quarterback for the New York Giants, stands out as a two-time Super Bowl MVP. His leadership on the field and ability to perform under pressure have solidified his legacy. Alongside him are Antonio Gates, a tight end known for his incredible catching ability, and Reggie Wayne, a wide receiver celebrated for his precise route-running and hands.
Gates, a finalist for the second consecutive year, holds the record for the most receiving touchdowns by a tight end in NFL history with 116. His impact on the San Diego Chargers is undeniable, as he is the franchise’s all-time reception leader. Meanwhile, Wayne, a six-time Pro Bowler, ranks among the top ten in both receptions and receiving yards, with a total of 1,070 catches and 14,345 yards.
Manning’s nomination is particularly noteworthy, as he is one of five players making their debut as finalists in their first year of eligibility, joining the ranks of Luke Kuechly, Terrell Suggs, Adam Vinatieri, and Marshal Yanda. In a twist, Steve Smith Sr. also enters the spotlight as a first-time finalist in his fourth year of eligibility.
Completing the list of finalists are notable names such as offensive linemen Willie Anderson and Jahri Evans, defensive lineman Jared Allen, wide receiver Torry Holt, defensive backs Eric Allen and Darren Woodson, and running back Fred Taylor. Each of these athletes has made significant contributions to their teams and the league.
These 15 finalists will join five additional candidates from the contributor, coach, and seniors categories: Ralph Hay (contributor), Mike Holmgren (coach), and seniors Maxie Baughan, Sterling Sharpe, and Jim Tyrer.
The Hall of Fame selection committee will convene before Super Bowl LIX to cast their votes for the 2025 class. The results will be revealed during the “NFL Honors” show in New Orleans, coinciding with Super Bowl week. While there is no fixed number of inductees, the Hall’s bylaws indicate that between four and eight new members will be selected, with the enshrinement ceremony scheduled for August in Canton.
The finalists in the Modern-Era Player category emerged from a rigorous selection process, beginning with an initial list of 167 nominees. This list underwent two reductions before arriving at the final 15 contenders.
Here’s the complete list of finalists:
Eric Allen, Cornerback — 1988-1994 Philadelphia Eagles, 1995-97 New Orleans Saints, 1998-2001 Oakland Raiders (Times as a finalist: 2 — 2024-25)
Jared Allen, Defensive End — 2004-07 Kansas City Chiefs, 2008-2013 Minnesota Vikings, 2014-15 Chicago Bears, 2015 Carolina Panthers (Times as a finalist: 5 — 2021-25)
Jahri Evans, Guard — 2006-2016 New Orleans Saints, 2017 Green Bay Packers (Times as a finalist: 4 — 2022-25)
Antonio Gates, Tight End — 2003-2018 San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers (Times as a finalist: 2 — 2024-25)
Torry Holt, Wide Receiver — 1999-2008 St. Louis Rams, 2009 Jacksonville Jaguars (Times as a finalist: 6 — 2020-25)
Luke Kuechly, Linebacker — 2012-19 Carolina Panthers (Times as a finalist: 1 — 2025)
Eli Manning, Quarterback – 2004-2019 New York Giants (Times as a finalist: 1 — 2025)
Fred Taylor, Running Back — 1998-2008 Jacksonville Jaguars, 2009-2010 New England Patriots (Times as a finalist: 2 — 2024-25)
Adam Vinatieri, Kicker – 1996-2005 New England Patriots, 2006-2019 Indianapolis Colts (Times as a finalist: 1 — 2025)
Reggie Wayne, Wide Receiver — 2001-2014 Indianapolis Colts (Times as a finalist: 6 — 2020-2025)
Darren Woodson, Safety — 1992-2003 Dallas Cowboys (Times as a finalist: 3 — 2023-25)
