Antonio Gates and Julius Peppers Among Finalists for Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2024
By Matt Coleman
Published December 28, 2023
The Pro Football Hall of Fame's class of 2024 has new finalists, including first-time candidates Julius Peppers and Antonio Gates. They joined nine returning finalists in the final stage of voting.
Returning Finalists and Newcomers
The 15-player ballot includes five-time finalists Torry Holt and Reggie Wayne, along with seven other returning finalists. Newcomers to this stage include defensive backs Eric Allen and Rodney Harrison, running back Fred Taylor, and offensive lineman Jahri Evans.
Selection Process
The 15 finalists will be further narrowed down to 10 and then to five during the selection meeting early next year. To be inducted into the Hall of Fame, the final five candidates must receive 80% of the votes from the panel.
Upcoming Announcement
The class of 2024 will be announced at the NFL Honors show in Las Vegas on Feb. 8. This event will also feature The Associated Press' season awards for 2023.
Peppers and Gates' Background
Both Julius Peppers and Antonio Gates were successful in college basketball before transitioning to football. Peppers, picked second overall by the Carolina Panthers in 2002, had a prolific 17-year career as a dominant lineman. Gates, who initially pursued a basketball career, became an All-Pro tight end for the Chargers, setting an NFL record for tight ends with 116 touchdown receptions.
Other Notable Finalists
The 15 finalists also include three prolific wide receivers—Andre Johnson, Torry Holt, and Reggie Wayne. Defensive players Eric Allen and Dwight Freeney rank in the top 20 all time in sacks. Additionally, several finalists had multiple first-team All-Pro selections, demonstrating their impact on the field.
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