Overview
- Multiple outlets report Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft fell short of the 40-of-50 vote requirement, with official selections to be revealed Thursday at NFL Honors in San Francisco.
- Under rules adopted in 2025, coaches, contributors and senior candidates share a five-person ballot, with 50 selectors voting for up to three names and an 80% threshold for induction.
- Kraft reached finalist status for the first time after nominations dating to 2013, while Belichick was a first-year eligible coach; the dual outcomes counter claims that support for Kraft cost Belichick a spot.
- Kraft publicly called Belichick the greatest coach ever and deserving of unanimous first-ballot induction, and Commissioner Roger Goodell said he expects both men will eventually enter the Hall.
- Players, coaches and some voters voiced frustration with the process, and some commentary questioned whether Patriots-era scandals are affecting perceptions while urging greater transparency or reforms.