The Pro Football Hall of Fame has issued a statement after the Bill Belichick snub caused massive outrage among NFL fans and players. Belichick is one of the most celebrated coaches in NFL history and has an enviable track record. Yet, he isn’t a first-ballot Pro Football Hall of Famer. According to a report by ESPN, the 73-year-old did not receive the necessary votes in his first year of eligibility.
Football Hall of Fame releases statement amid outrage over Bill Belichick snub
The Pro Football Hall of Fame has made a statement following the backlash over Bill Belichick’s snub, while not using his name directly. The organization shared its side of the story on Wednesday, January 28, a day after ESPN’s report. Sources reportedly told ESPN that Belichick was both “disappointed” and “puzzled” by the decision, a reaction that has been shared by many prominent voices within the sport. According to the report, another source told the outlet that “politics” played a role in the snub.
The statement begins by seemingly acknowledging fans’ and former players’ reactions, stressing that the Hall of Fame respects their passion regarding their choices. Additionally, the Hall of Fame added that they respect members of the selection committee “when they follow the selection process bylaws.”
Furthermore, the statement explains that each year the Hall of Fame “reviews the selection process and the composition of the 50-person Selection Committee.” The statement continues, “if it is determined that any member or members violated the selection process bylaws, they understand action will be taken. That could include the possibility that such selectors would not remain a member of the committee moving forward. The selection of a new class is the most important duty the Hall of Fame oversees each year, and the integrity of that process cannot be in question.”
