Overview
- Multiple outlets report Belichick fell short of the 40-of-50 threshold for first-ballot induction and was informed by a Hall representative.
- ESPN’s reporting says Spygate and Deflategate were raised during deliberations, with one voter saying the scandals were the only explanation for the outcome.
- Bill Polian was cited by one report as urging a one-year wait tied to Spygate; he denied making that remark and said he cannot recall his vote with certainty.
- The news drew broad backlash from athletes and coaches, with public criticism from Patrick Mahomes, J.J. Watt, Jimmy Johnson and Tom Brady.
- The Hall says it will not detail ballots until NFL Honors on Feb. 5 and noted potential action for bylaw violations; Belichick is eligible again in 2027.