Kraft and Belichick Nominated for 2026 Hall of Fame Ballot

Robert Kraft and Bill Belichick, two pivotal figures in the New England Patriots’ NFL success story, have been nominated for the 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame ballot. Kraft, who has owned the Patriots since 1994 and led the team to six Super Bowl victories, enters as a finalist in the contributor category. This marks his first appearance on the ballot after 14 years of advocacy from his supporters.

Belichick, who has eight Super Bowl wins—six as head coach and two as a defensive coordinator—also joins the prestigious list in his first year of eligibility. His coaching record of 333 wins and 178 losses ranks second in NFL history, trailing only Don Shula.

Voting Process and Finalists

The Hall of Fame will utilize two nine-member committees to determine Kraft and Belichick’s fate. A total of 50 Hall voters will have the final say. For both to be inducted, they need to secure at least 80% of the votes in their respective categories.

Opposing Contenders

• Ken Anderson: Quarterback with 32,838 passing yards and 197 touchdowns.
• Roger Craig: Running back known for his 1,000 rushing and receiving yards in a single season.
• L.C. Greenwood: Defensive end associated with the Steelers’ “Steel Curtain” defense, with 78 sacks.

Interpersonal Tensions

The contentious relationship between Kraft and Belichick has intensified since their separation in January 2024. Notably, Belichick has expressed discontent regarding Kraft’s involvement in a recent documentary that highlighted the Patriots’ history.

Public moments between them have been marked by tension. For example, during a roast for Tom Brady, Belichick commented about the documentary in a joking manner, indicating underlying issues between the two. After missing an induction ceremony, Belichick openly conveyed his displeasure at not being invited.

Kraft’s Long Road to Nomination

Kraft’s journey to this nomination has included significant advocacy from influential figures in the NFL. From purchasing the team in 1994, he transformed the Patriots into a leading franchise, achieving continuous success ever since.

Despite previous snubs from the Hall of Fame, his nomination reflects a growing recognition of his contributions to the sport. Kraft has been credited with multiple critical roles in the league, including his efforts to resolve labor disputes.

Looking Ahead

The votes will be cast on January 13, and the results will be revealed before the Super Bowl in February. If both Kraft and Belichick are inducted, they could celebrate this milestone together, marking a pivotal moment in NFL history.