Eli Manning, Luke Kuechly Among 15 Pro Football Hall of Fame Finalists for 2025

Dec 28, 2024, 03:11 PM

The Pro Football Hall of Fame has announced the 15 modern-era player finalists for the Class of 2025. The finalists include first-year eligible players Eli Manning, Luke Kuechly, and Terrell Suggs, as well as returning finalists such as Jahri Evans, Reggie Wayne, Eric Allen, and Antonio Gates. Other notable finalists are Steve Smith Sr., Adam Vinatieri, Darren Woodson, Marshal Yanda, Torry Holt, Jared Allen, Willie Anderson, and Fred Taylor. Up to five players will be selected for induction, with the final announcement scheduled for February 6, during Super Bowl week. Eli Manning, a New Orleans native and two-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback, is in his first year of eligibility. Linebacker Luke Kuechly, formerly of the Carolina Panthers, and defensive end Terrell Suggs are also first-year eligible finalists. Steve Smith Sr., another former Panther, has advanced to the finals after three years as a semifinalist. Jahri Evans, a former Saints standout, and Reggie Wayne, also from New Orleans, are among the returning finalists. Adam Vinatieri, the NFL's all-time leading scorer, is also a finalist. The selection process is highly competitive, and only up to five players will ultimately be inducted into the Hall of Fame. The Class of 2025 will be announced on February 6.