Kraft Among Five Hall of Fame Contributor Finalists
Robert Kraft, who owns the Patriots, is among five candidates in the Pro Football Hall of Fame contributor category for its 2027 class, announced on November 4.
Kraft is joined by former quarterback Doug Williams, late Chicago Bears owner Virginia McCaskey, Wooten, a longtime player who later worked in personnel, and Ralph Hay, who once owned the Canton Bulldogs. The candidates were chosen from 42 nominees.
The Hall’s contributor subcommittee is scheduled to meet virtually on November 17 and select one candidate for consideration by the full selection committee. The 2027 class is expected to be revealed during February’s NFL Honors event in Los Angeles.
Kraft has owned the Patriots since 1994. The team has won six Super Bowls and appeared in five others during his ownership. He was a finalist for the 2026 class, along with former Patriots coach Bill Belichick, but neither was selected.
Williams became the first Black quarterback to start a Super Bowl, and was named the game’s MVP after Washington defeated Denver 42-10 in Super Bowl 22. McCaskey led the Bears from 1983 until her death in 2025. Wooten played nine NFL seasons and later held scouting and personnel roles; since 2003, he has chaired the Fritz Pollard Alliance. Hay owned the Bulldogs from 1918 to 1922 and hosted the NFL’s founding meeting at his Canton car dealership.
The Hall has revised its selection system. The committee has 28 members, with 25 voting each year; candidates need 80% support to be elected. The Hall’s president said the changes are intended to strengthen the process while preserving its traditions.