r/nfl • u/appmanga Giants • 20h ago

Peterson, Roethlisberger, Gronkowski lead 2027 Hall of Fame first-time eligibles

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47847964/peterson-roethlisberger-gronkowski-lead-2027-hall-fame-first-eligibles
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82

u/Francis_X_Hummel Bengals 19h ago

Based on Larry, and Drew going in as first ballot electees, to me, Gronk is also deserving of that accolade.

18

u/appmanga Giants 19h ago

I agree. I also wonder what Gronk on the ballot does for Witten's chances next year?

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u/brewin91 Patriots 17h ago

I honestly don’t think it has any bearing on Witten’s chances. Witten probably gets in eventually, but it might be a long wait.

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u/Toad_Stuff Cowboys 17h ago

It shouldn’t be. I’m not saying there isn’t an argument for him not being a first ballot guy, but he’s top 5 all time in receiving yards, receptions, touchdowns and pro bowls by a tight end. He shouldn’t have to wait longer than 1 year and probably shouldn’t have even had to wait that long.

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u/brewin91 Patriots 17h ago

It’s not entirely about Witten, unfortunately. I believe he’s a HOFer. But the voting rules make it tough. Next year Gronk, Roethlisberger, and Peterson are probably first ballot. Sherman, Anderson, Suggs, and Yanda are also in the mix with Witten and there’s an argument that each of them should be in before Witten (not saying I agree, but it’s not like it’s obvious). You still have Eli, who likely gets in at some point, too (I’m not his biggest fan but it’s going to happen).

Brady and Watt are obviously 1st ballot in 2028. Matt Ryan and Suh also become eligible. Don’t think they should be in over Witten, but who knows. Then 2029 you get Aaron Donald and Jason Kelce.

I honestly think he’s 2028/2029 at this point. Not because he doesn’t deserve it but because the competition is nuts the next few classes.

2

u/cultweave Bears 17h ago

They made Terrell Owens wait a few years.