HOF: Sr Category News
Vikings defensive end Jim Marshall and running back Chuck Foreman are among 52 former players still being considered for the three finalist spots from the Seniors category for the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026, the Hall announced Thursday morning.
The nine Seniors Blue-Ribbon Committee members, who also serve on the 50-person selection committee, were tasked with reducing a list of 162 nominees down to 50, plus ties. They now will trim the field from 52 to 25 to nine over the next several weeks. After that, they’ll meet virtually to decide the three finalists.
Seniors under consideration for 2026 played their final seasons in 2000 or before.
Marshall, who died June 3, defined the term “NFL ironman” during a 20-year career (1960-79) in which he played the final 19 as an original member of the Vikings. A two-time Pro Bowl selection, Marshall’s 289 consecutive games started, including playoffs, is second in NFL history behind Brett Favre’s 321. Marshall’s 301 consecutive games played, including playoffs, is third behind punter Jeff Feagles (363) and Favre (323).
Foreman, 74, was a dual-threat running back who was ahead of his time. He won NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 1973 and finished third in the Associated Press’ 1974 NFL MVP voting. A five-time Pro Bowl pick and 1975 first-team All-Pro, Foreman played seven seasons with the Vikings and a final year in New England. He led the NFL in receptions in 1975 (73), touchdowns from scrimmage in 1974 (15) and 1976 (14) and total touchdowns from 1974-76 (51).
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Hurry-up Vikings, we ain't getting any younger!
Chuck Foreman was one of my favorite players in the 70's. When I played any sport I always requested the # 44. He was phenomenal player and way ahead of his time. HOFer?? I'm not sure.
Jim Marshall on the other hand should have been shoe in long ago. I believe he still holds the record for most fumble recoveries. Most consecutive games played that he held onto for 30 years. Think he had 130 career sacks which is top 30 all time.
Chucks numbers very much hold up for HOF when compared to others of his generation, which should be the benchmarks used for the senior category as the guys that came decades later didnt play the same game.
Why isn't Chuck Foreman in the Hall of Fame?
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