CINCINNATI (ENQUIRER) – Former Carolina Panthers great Luke Kuechly, a Cincinnati native who starred at St. Xavier High School, was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s class of 2026.
The class was revealed during the NFL Honors show in San Francisco. Receiver Larry Fitzgerald, kicker Adam Vinatieri, running back Roger Craig and quarterback Drew Brees also were elected.
Kuechly was one of 15 modern-era player finalists for the 2026 class, along with former Bengals offensive tackle Willie Anderson. Both were denied one year ago.
Former Bengals quarterback Ken Anderson was one of five finalists named among contributors, coaches and senior players who last played at least 25 years ago. Craig was elected from that group.
Neither of the former Bengals were elected.
Modern-era players require a minimum positive vote of 80 percent.
The Panthers removed from circulation Kuechly’s No. 59, which he wore throughout his eight seasons as a player for the team before announcing his retirement in Jan. 2020.
Kuechly was among 2021 St. Xavier Athletic Hall of Fame inductees.
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