With two votes left, Larry Fitzgerald's chances to become a Hall of Famer in his first chance at Canton grew again on Tuesday.
The Cardinals wide receiver was named one of 15 modern-era finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame's 2026 class in his first year of eligibility. The next vote will trim that number to seven, with those who earn induction coming from that group, up to five.
Fitzgerald last played in the 2020 season. While he never actually uttered the words "I'm retired," it is simply a player's appearance in a game that dictates the beginning of the five-year waiting period.
(Quarterback Philip Rivers, who had been a semifinalist for this class, reset his Hall clock by returning to play for the Colts this month.)
The only other player with Cardinals ties is edge rusher Terrell Suggs, who played 13 games during the 2019 season for the Cardinals, a small part of his 17-year career.
Three other first-timers are in the group of 15: quarterback Drew Brees, running back Frank Gore and tight end Jason Witten. Four players automatically reached the final 15 after getting into the final seven a year ago: tackle Willie Anderson, wide receiver Torry Holt, linebacker Luke Kuechly, and kicker Adam Vinatieri.
The other finalists are guard Jahri Evans, quarterback Eli Manning, wide receiver Reggie Wayne, defensive tackle Kevin Williams, safety Darren Woodson, and offensive lineman Marshal Yanda.
Fitzgerald will make the Hall of Fame at some point, and many think it could be now. He made 11 Pro Bowls and an AP All-Pro team three times. His 1,432 receptions and 17,492 receiving yards are both second in NFL history, both behind Hall of Famer Jerry Rice. He had 121 touchdowns in 263 career games.
The Class of 2026 will be announced Feb. 5 at the NFL Honors show during Super Bowl week in San Francisco.
The Hall of Fame selection committee are tasked to vote for up to five of the final seven. Only players who receive 80 percent of that vote make it into Canton.
