American Football Hall of Fame welcomes 4 new members
Three of the four members of the Hall of Fame are offensive players, although there were no Quarterbacks in this edition
The Pro Football Hall of Fame welcomed four new legends this Saturday: Sterling Sharpe, Antonio Gates, Jared Allen and Eric Allen, who were immortalized with their bronze busts at the ceremony induction of the class of 2025, held in Canton, Ohio.
Founded in 1963, the Hall of Fame recognizes the greatest players, coaches and figures of the NFL, who receive the iconic gold jacket and a bust that will remain on display forever.
Sterling Sharpe and his emotional family moment
Sterling Sharpe, historic receiver for the Green Bay Packers, became, along with his brother Shannon Sharpe (inducted in 2011), the first pair of brothers to enter the Hall of Fame. With a brief but brilliant career, he accumulated 595 receptions, 8,134 yards and 65 touchdowns in seven seasons, being a three-time All-Pro and five times Pro Bowl. He was the first player to record back-to-back 100-catch seasons (1992 and 1993).
In his speech, Sharpe joked with his brother:
"You're the second-best football player in the family now," he said with a laugh, before symbolically offering him his gold jacket as a tribute.
Jared Allen, the quarterback rusher
The former defensive end played 12 seasons in the NFL with the Chiefs, Vikings, Bears and Panthers, recording 136 sacks, 648 tackles and 32 forced fumbles. He was a five-time Pro Bowler and four-time All-Pro, setting records for most defensive touchdowns in a season (2) and in his career (4).
Moved, Allen dedicated his achievement to those who accompanied him on his journey:
"This jacket is a reflection of everyone who has contributed to my life and career."
Eric Allen, the defensive wall
Considered one of the best cornerbacks of his generation, Eric Allen played 14 seasons in the NFL with the Eagles, Saints and Raiders, recording 54 interceptions (eight returned for touchdowns), six Pro Bowl selections and four All-Pro designations.
Antonio Gates, the king of tight ends
A legend with the Los Angeles Chargers, Gates played 16 seasons and accumulated 11,841 receiving yards and 116 touchdowns, an all-time record for a tight end. He shares the mark with Tony Gonzalez with 955 receptions at that position.
Special tribute to Marv Levy
During the ceremony, a tribute was also paid to Marv Levy, a coach who has been inducted into the Hall of Fame since 2001 and the architect of the Buffalo Bills' run to four consecutive Super Bowls. Levy will turn 100 this Sunday.

