On Tuesday morning, the Pro Football Hall of Fame announced its Modern Era finalists for the Class of 2026. The group of 15 names included New England Patriots legend Adam Vinatieri.
Vinatieri, who recently celebrated his 53rd birthday, played 24 seasons in the NFL from 1996 to 2019. He spent the first 10 of those seasons with the Patriots and 14 years with the Indianapolis Colts, winning four Super Bowls and becoming the only player in league history with 1,000 points for multiple franchises.
Vinatieri was a key member of New England’s dynasty, helping the franchise win three titles in four years with several clutch kicks. All three of those championships came by a field goal, with Vinatieri drilling game-winners in the first two.
One of the best and most prolific placekickers in NFL history, Vinatieri made three Pro Bowls, including two with the Patriots. He holds the NFL records for most field goals made and attempted, overtime field goals, postseason points and total points.
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Vinatieri’s longevity was legendary. He played until age 47 and played every game in 19 of his 24 seasons.
One of the most famous and important kickers in NFL history, Vinatieri should be a shoo-in for the Hall of Fame. He was also a finalist last year but wasn’t elected, which many considered a snub at the time.
Accordingly, don’t be surprised if Vinatieri makes it this time. Finalists need 80 percent of the vote, and inductees will be announced the week before the Super Bowl.
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Featured image via Kirby Lee/USA TODAY Sports Images
