LeSean McCoy Takes Major Step Towards Hall of Fame in Inaugural Eligibility Year
Former Eagles Running Back Makes the Cut
LeSean McCoy, the Philadelphia Eagles’ all-time leading rusher, has officially advanced in the voting process for the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026. Marking his first year of eligibility, McCoy finds himself among a prestigious group of 52 modern-era candidates vying for a coveted spot in Canton.
McCoy, who dazzled fans throughout his career, is one of only eight running backs who made the initial cut. Over the course of his NFL tenure, he amassed an impressive 11,000 rushing yards, with his standout season occurring in 2013. During that year, he led the league with 1,607 rushing yards—a record at the time for the Eagles—while earning first-team All-Pro honors.
A Record-Breaking Career in Philadelphia
Drafted as a second-round pick out of Pittsburgh in 2009, McCoy quickly became a cornerstone of the Eagles’ offense. His six-year tenure in Philadelphia saw him earn three Pro Bowl selections. He concluded his time with the Eagles having set franchise records with 6,792 rushing yards and 9,074 scrimmage yards. However, his journey took a surprising turn when he was traded to the Buffalo Bills for linebacker Kiko Alonso, who faced challenges during his brief stint in Philadelphia.
Other Eagles Eyeing Enshrinement
McCoy is not the only former Eagle in the running for Hall of Fame recognition. Alongside him, running back Ricky Watters and cornerbacks Asante Samuel and Troy Vincent—who currently serves as the NFL’s Executive Vice President of Football Operations—are also among the final 52 candidates.
Changes in Hall of Fame Selection Process
The selection process for the Hall of Fame has seen significant adjustments in recent years. The Modern-Era Players Screening Committee, established in 2024, allows each member to cast ballots for 50 players they believe deserve consideration for election. This year’s initial nominees totaled 128, including 77 offensive players, 42 defensive players, and nine special teams specialists. The inclusion of ties for the 50th position expands the list to 52 candidates.
The next phase involves the Hall of Fame’s full 50-person Selection Committee, which will evaluate the current roster and vote on 25 nominees to advance to the semifinalist stage. The names of these semifinalists, including any ties, are set to be released in approximately five weeks. The Class of 2026 will be announced on February 5, just days before the Super Bowl, with enshrinement set for the following August in Canton, Ohio.
Notable Peers in the Hunt
Among the top first-year candidates are legendary quarterback Drew Brees, renowned for his prolific career with the New Orleans Saints, and long-time Arizona Cardinals star receiver Larry Fitzgerald. Both players have left indelible marks on the game, adding to the excitement surrounding this year’s Hall of Fame voting.
As McCoy’s name is now among the elite, the anticipation surrounding his potential induction into the Hall of Fame continues to grow, capturing the attention of Eagles fans and NFL enthusiasts alike.
