Jason Witten, a revered figure in Dallas Cowboys history, has officially been named a finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026 in what marks his first year of eligibility. Witten, a tight end celebrated for his impressive achievements on the field, joins a Hall of Fame ballot that has already stirred some controversy. Notably, six-time Super Bowl-winning coach Bill Belichick and Patriots owner Robert Kraft will not be part of this class.
Alongside Witten, former safety Darren Woodson is also vying for a spot in the Hall. Woodson is in his 18th year of eligibility and has reached the finalist stage for the fourth time. Both players could potentially join other modern-era finalists such as quarterback Drew Brees, wide receivers Larry Fitzgerald and Torry Holt, linebacker Luke Kuechly, running back Frank Gore, and linebacker Terrell Suggs.
The selection committee, which will announce the new Hall of Famers during the NFL Honors Show on Thursday, faces the challenge of choosing three candidates from a five-man contributor group that includes Belichick and Kraft, along with former players Roger Craig, L.C. Greenwood, and Kenny Anderson. For the modern-era players, the committee can elect up to five, with each candidate needing at least 80% of the votes to be inducted.
Witten’s illustrious 16-year career includes 11 Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro honors. He is second all-time among tight ends with 13,046 receiving yards and 1,228 receptions, only trailing Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez. During the peak of his career from 2007 to 2012, he posted average statistics of 92 receptions, 1,018 yards, and five touchdowns per season. His former coach, Jason Garrett, has hailed Witten as a “slam dunk” first-ballot Hall of Famer due to his stellar credentials.
Darren Woodson, on the other hand, is recognized as the Cowboys’ all-time leading tackler with 1,350 tackles, accompanied by five Pro Bowl selections and three All-Pro honors. His ability to play multiple positions and contribute on special teams made him invaluable to the team’s success during his tenure, which included three Super Bowl victories.
The anticipation surrounding the announcement of the 2026 Hall of Fame class is palpable, with both Witten and Woodson representing the legacy of excellence that defines the Cowboys organization. As fans eagerly await the decision, there remains hope that these two legends will soon take their place among the game’s greatest names.