Overview
- ESPN reported Bill Belichick failed to reach the 40-of-50 vote threshold for the Class of 2026, leaving him eligible for reconsideration in 2027.
- Hall voters Mike Chappell and Vahe Gregorian explained choosing Robert Kraft or long-waiting senior finalists over Belichick, with Chappell also citing the Spygate penalty as a factor.
- The Pro Football Hall of Fame issued a statement backing the selection process and said selectors who disclose prohibited details could face removal from the committee.
- Public reaction intensified as players and commentators condemned the outcome, Jimmy Kimmel joked about Belichick’s relationship, and a viral post claiming a breakup with Jordon Hudson was identified as fake.
- Calls for reform grew, with proposals to separate voting categories, increase transparency, and expand the electorate, while analysis noted the snub could extend the backlog for coaches such as Mike Shanahan.