The Pro Football Hall of Fame released their 2026 modern era finalists, and there was plenty of Louisiana representation on the list.
Former New Orleans Saints Drew Brees and Jahri Evans, as well as Louisiana natives Eli Manning and Reggie Wayne were four of the 15 finalists.
Brees, expected to make it as a first ballot member, threw for more than 80,000 yards and 571 touchdowns in his illustrious career. He also led the Saints to their only Super Bowl in 2009.
Evans, a longtime teammate of Brees, was a mainstay at offensive guard for the Saints. At one point, he made four consecutive All-Pro teams and six consecutive Pro Bowls.
Manning, a New Orleans native, played at Newman High School for his prep career. He went on to win two Super Bowls during his long career with the New York Giants.
Wayne, also a New Orleans native, prepped at John Ehret High School on the Westbank. He went onto play 14 years with the Colts, racking up more than 14,000 receiving yards and winning a Super Bowl as well.
The 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame class will be unveiled on February 5th before the Super Bowl that Sunday.