Bill Belichick was surprisingly not a first-ballot Hall of Fame inductee in 2026. Courtesy of UNC's Football YouTube Channel
When the Pro Football Hall of Fame announced its Class of 2026 nominees, many people in the NFL expected Bill Belichick’s name to be included without question. But the league’s most decorated modern-era coach was left out, leading fans, media, and some Hall voters to call it a “Hall of Fame snub.”
What Happened
During his first year of eligibility, Belichick was classified as a coach, contributor, and senior in the coaches, contributors, and seniors categories. To earn induction, a finalist must secure at least 80% of the selection committee’s vote—40 out of 50 ballots. Belichick failed to meet that threshold and was informed by the Hall by phone that he would not attend the 2026 enshrinement ceremony in Canton. According to ESPN, the scope of his résumé made the decision all the more stunning.
Belichick’s tenure as head coach of the New England Patriots saw him win six Super Bowls, while he also won two more as defensive coordinator of the New York Giants, and earned 333 combined regular-season and playoff victories. That total ranks second all-time, trailing only Don Shula, who has long been considered the gold standard for coaching greatness.
Why It’s Viewed as a “Snub”
Per the Sun Sentinel, Belichick’s first-time omission isn’t just surprising—it’s unprecedented. For years, coaches with less impressive records have been voted into the Hall right away, so this delay stands out. Reports from the selection room say the discussion went beyond wins and championships.
When reached by phone, Hall of Fame coach Jimmy Johnson was “livid.”
“I’m so livid.” “What? He’s a slam dunk,’’ Johnson said.
“I was shocked to learn Bill didn’t get in,” former Indianapolis Colts general manager Bill Polian, a Hall of Fame voter, said. “He deserves to be in the Hall of Fame.”
Former Hall of Fame voter Peter King said, “Holy f—! … I’m very, very surprised.”
“A lot of things happen in that room that are unexpected. And of course, this is a big surprise to me,” King said.
Some voters want Belichick to wait a year as a form of accountability, since old frustrations over Spygate and Deflategate have resurfaced. This move has drawn criticism, especially from media members and columnists who also vote for the Hall. Some have called the decision embarrassing and too political. Critics argue the Hall of Fame should focus on what happens on the field and a person’s place in history, not on judging someone’s character.
What Does It Mean Going Forward?
Although Belichick was not chosen for the 2026 class, it still seems almost certain that he will be inducted in the future. Not being picked on the first try is mostly just a formality and does not change his lasting reputation. The group that reviews coaches, contributors, and senior candidates can revisit his case in the coming years. Most experts agree that Belichick will be honored, and his place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame is not in doubt.
How important this short wait is depends on whether voters see it as a decision based on principle or as a rare mistake by the group that protects football history.
About the Author
Landon Buford is an accomplished sports and entertainment journalist based in Richardson, Texas, with over a decade of experience covering the NBA, WNBA, NFL, WWE, MLB, and the entertainment industry. Known for delivering high-impact stories and headline-making interviews, Buford has earned a global audience through content that blends insider access with compelling storytelling.
He previously served as director of editorial and brand communications at PlayersTV, where he helped shape the platform’s editorial voice and brand identity. He is also the founder and editor-in-chief of LandonBuford.com—an independent outlet with more than 1.6 million views and syndication from major platforms including Bleacher Report, Sports Illustrated and Yahoo Sports. Buford’s interviews with stars like Gary Payton, Kevin Durant, Mark Cuban and Chris Paul showcase his talent for meaningful, in-depth conversations.
His bylines have appeared in Sports Illustrated, Forbes, Heavy.com, Meta’s Bulletin and One37pm, where he has contributed exclusive interviews, breaking news and cultural insights. At Heavy.com, his work drew more than a million views in just eight months, and at One37pm, it contributed to record-breaking traffic numbers.
His work highlights the intersection of sports, fashion, music, and entrepreneurship—showcasing how athletes and entertainers use their platforms to inspire change, influence trends, and shape culture beyond the game. Landon has interviewed a wide range of figures from the NBA, NFL, and entertainment industries, consistently bringing authentic voices and untold stories to the forefront.
In addition to his journalism, Buford is an entrepreneur and content creator, dedicated to amplifying diverse narratives and driving meaningful conversations across media platforms. His passion for storytelling, culture, and innovation continues to make him a respected voice in the evolving landscape of sports and entertainment media.
