Prolific receiver Sterling Sharpe and Super Bowl-winning coach Mike Holmgren have advanced to the final stage of voting for the 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame class. Sharpe, a standout player for the Green Bay Packers from 1988-94, was selected as one of three finalists in the Seniors category, alongside Maxie Baughan and Jim Tyrer. Sharpe's impressive career included setting an NFL record with 108 catches for 1,461 yards and 13 touchdowns in 1992. He finished his career with 595 catches for 8,134 yards and 65 TDs, trailing only Jerry Rice in receptions and TD catches over his seven-year tenure.
Baughan, a dominant linebacker in the 1960s for the Philadelphia Eagles and Los Angeles Rams, was also named a finalist in the Seniors category. He helped the Eagles secure an NFL title in his rookie year and earned nine Pro Bowl selections during his 10-year career, solidifying his place as one of the top linebackers of his era.
Tyrer, a six-time All-Pro left tackle for the Kansas City Chiefs, was the third finalist in the Seniors category. Despite his impressive career accolades, including three AFL titles and a Super Bowl win, Tyrer's Hall of Fame eligibility was impacted by a tragic incident in 1980 when he was involved in a murder-suicide. Experts now believe he may have suffered from CTE, a degenerative brain disease common among former NFL players.
In the coaching category, Holmgren emerged as the sole finalist. Known for his offensive prowess, Holmgren achieved success as an assistant coach for the San Francisco 49ers before leading the Green Bay Packers to a Super Bowl victory in 1996. His coaching career spanned 10 years in Seattle, culminating in three Super Bowl appearances and a 161-111 record.
Ralph Hay, who played a pivotal role in the formation of the NFL by owning the Canton Bulldogs and hosting the league's inaugural meeting, was selected as the finalist in the contributor category. Hay's contributions to the early development of the NFL were instrumental in shaping the league's foundation.
The final selection for the 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame class will be determined by the full selection committee in January, with voters able to choose three candidates for induction. The inductees will be announced during Super Bowl week in New Orleans in February.
