Bill Belichick Snub Leads to Robert Kraft’s Hall of Fame Denial

Emerson Raymont

Published: February 3, 2026 9:35 AM ET

The New England Patriots are facing a notable absence from the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2026. Both Robert Kraft and Bill Belichick failed to receive enough votes for induction this year. This news comes shortly after Belichick’s own exclusion was reported. Despite their significant accomplishments, fans and analysts expected the disappointment from Kraft’s snub to be less pronounced than Belichick’s.

Robert Kraft’s Hall of Fame Denial

With this year’s voting results, Kraft has come closer than ever to Hall of Fame induction. After 14 years of eligibility, he was named a finalist in the contributor category. Kraft competed against notable figures, including Belichick, Roger Craig, Ken Anderson, and L.C. Greenwood.

Voting Process Overview

The Hall of Fame panel consists of media members and significant NFL figures.
Voters select three of the five finalists, with those receiving at least 40 out of 50 votes earning a spot in Canton, Ohio.

Achievements of Kraft and Belichick

Since purchasing the Patriots in 1994, Kraft has overseen six Super Bowl championships and 374 victories. Belichick contributed as head coach for all six titles. Under Kraft’s ownership, the team made 10 Super Bowl appearances, solidifying its status in the NFL.

Impact on the NFL

Kraft played a crucial role in ending the 2011 NFL lockout and has participated in various ownership committees within the league. His efforts have significantly influenced the game’s operations and policies.

Reactions to the Snubs

Media scrutiny heightened this past week regarding the Hall of Fame voting process, particularly following Belichick’s snub. Kraft publicly supported Belichick, stating that his “record and body of work speak for themselves.” Kraft praised Belichick as the “greatest coach of all time” and believed he deserved unanimous first-ballot induction.

Former NFL commissioner Roger Goodell also weighed in, commending both Kraft and Belichick for their exceptional contributions to the sport. He reiterated that the NFL is not involved in the Hall of Fame voting process.

Future Prospects

As the Patriots move forward, the focus shifts to new leadership. Following Belichick’s departure after the 2023 season, Jerod Mayo briefly took the reins before Mike Vrabel assumed the role, aiming to bring the team back to championship contention.

Despite recent setbacks in Hall of Fame voting, both Robert Kraft and Bill Belichick remain iconic figures within the NFL, and their legacies continue to shape the future of football.