Mon Dec 30 20:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Hall of Fame Finalists Include Manning, Kuechly, and Suggs

**Canton, OH** – Fifteen modern-era finalists have been announced for the 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame class, a group featuring prominent names like two-time Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning, former Defensive Players of the Year Luke Kuechly and Terrell Suggs, and prolific tight end Antonio Gates.

The finalists, selected from a pool of 25 nominees, represent a blend of first-time contenders and returning hopefuls. Manning, Kuechly, and Suggs are all first-year eligible finalists, alongside Adam Vinatieri and Marshal Yanda. Other notable returnees include Gates, Jared Allen, and several other standout players from previous years.

Manning, known for his two Super Bowl victories with the New York Giants, boasts an impressive career, though statistically less dominant than some other Hall of Fame quarterbacks. His legacy is cemented by his clutch performances in the postseason, particularly the game-winning drives against the New England Patriots.

Kuechly and Suggs are recognized for their exceptional defensive careers. Kuechly, despite a relatively short career, made a significant impact, earning numerous accolades including Defensive Player of the Year. Suggs’ long career, highlighted by his 2011 Defensive Player of the Year award and numerous double-digit sack seasons, further solidifies the strength of this year’s finalists.

Gates’ impact as one of the NFL’s greatest tight ends is unquestionable, marked by numerous All-Pro selections and an NFL-record 116 touchdown receptions for tight ends. Vinatieri’s contributions as a clutch kicker are legendary, with numerous game-winning kicks in the regular season and playoffs, including critical plays in Super Bowl victories.

The selection committee will convene next month to choose three to five modern-era inductees, with the announcement scheduled for Super Bowl week. Additionally, finalists in the seniors, coaches, and contributor categories—including Maxie Baughan, Sterling Sharpe, Jim Tyrer, Mike Holmgren, and Ralph Hay—are also vying for induction. The final class will be a mix of modern-era and those other categories.

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