Settle in because this might be a long journey
New York Giants great Eli Manning was bypassed for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025. So, when will Manning become a Hall of Famer?
That might take a while.
Why? First of all, it was clear that support among selectors for Manning’s candidacy was, at best, lukewarm. Manning was one of the 15 semifinalists, but did not make the selection committee’s cut to the final seven candidates for consideration.
Now, let’s look at the quarterback competition he faces over the next several years.
- In 2026, Drew Brees and Philip Rivers are eligible for the first time. Brees will clearly be selected before Manning. It will be fascinating to see if Rivers, with no postseason accomplishments to point to, gets more support than Manning.
- In 2027, Ben Roethlisberger is eligible for the first time. Roethlisberger made six Pro Bowls and won two Super Bowls, but went 9 of 21 for 123 yards with no touchdown passes and two interceptions in the first of those.
- In 2028, Tom Brady is eligible for the first time. We know how that will go.
With all of that to consider, it might be 2029 before Manning has a legitimate chance to garner the necessary 80% support for selection from committee members.
