Overview

• Julius Peppers and Antonio Gates, both in their first year of eligibility, are among 25 semifinalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2024.
• Peppers, a prolific pass rusher, had 159.5 career sacks and 10 seasons with double-digit sacks, while Gates, a tight end, redefined his position with 955 catches for 11,841 yards and set the NFL record for tight ends with 116 touchdown receptions.
• Eight players who were semifinalists for the Class of 2023 are again in the running, including Jared Allen, Willie Anderson, Dwight Freeney, Devin Hester, Andre Johnson, Torry Holt, Patrick Willis and Darren Woodson.
• Former New York Giants running back Tiki Barber, who retired following the 2006 season, also joins Peppers and Gates as a first-time semifinalist.
• The 25 semifinalists will be reduced to 15 finalists before the final voting process for the Class of 2024 takes place in Las Vegas ahead of Super Bowl LVIII in February.