Hall of Fame issues statement amid Belichick backlash: “They understand action will be taken”
It has been reported that Bill Belichick, a six-time Super Bowl winner as a head coach, won’t be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame has revealed that it could remove members of its selection committee if any irregularities are discovered.
“Each year, the Hall reviews the selection process and the composition of the 50-person Selection Committee,” the body said in a statement on Wednesday. “If it is determined that any member(s) violated the selection process bylaws, they understand action will be taken.”
In other words, there is a possibility that some selectors involved in the vote may no longer remain on the committee going forward. The announcement came after reports surfaced that head coach Bill Belichick would not be inducted in his first year of eligibility.
Statement from the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Doesn’t name Bill Belichick but says if a voter violated the selection process bylaws, action will be taken, including the removing the voter from the committee. pic.twitter.com/OHaGPZvs4R
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) January 28, 2026
“Completely ridiculous”
Earlier this week, ESPN reported that Belichick did not receive the required 40 out of 50 votes for his 2026 induction, prompting a wave of criticism - including from active players like Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, and retired stars such as ex-Patriots QB Tom Brady.
“If he’s not a first-ballot Hall of Famer, there’s really no coach that should ever be a first-ballot Hall of Famer, which is completely ridiculous because people deserve it,” Brady said. “He’s incredible.”
Belichick was among the 20 finalists considered for the Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026. Over the course of his career as a head coach, he has amassed a long list of accolades: he won six Vince Lombardi Trophies with the New England Patriots (and earned two more rings as the defensive coordinator of the New York Giants).
His 31 postseason victories are the most of any head coach in NFL history, and he ranks third all‑time in regular‑season wins, behind only Don Shula and George Halas.
The 73‑year‑old coach has also been at the center of multiple controversies, including the so‑called Spygate and Deflategate scandals, which are believed to have played a role in the negative votes.
Bill Belichick as a Head Coach
— FanDuel Sportsbook (@FDSportsbook) January 27, 2026
🔹Most Super Bowl Titles
🔹Most Super Bowl Appearances
🔹Most Playoff Win
🔹Most Playoff Appearances
🔹Most Division Titles
🔹3rd Most Wins All-Time
Bill Belichick deserves his flowers 💐 pic.twitter.com/rfg0xFjjpi
Related stories
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment