Many thought New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning would be a first-ballot entry into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but once the 2025 class announcement concluded at the NFL Honors show on Thursday night,

Cornerback Eric Allen, in his 19th year of eligibility, and defensive end Jared Allen, in his fifth year of eligibility, were named to the Hall's Class of 2025 along with tight end Antonio Gates and wide receiver Sterling Sharpe. Sharpe, whose career was cut short by a congenital neck condition, was the senior finalist selected for enshrinement.

Shannon Sharpe, who’s been in the Hall of Fame since 2011, was able to break the good news to brother and former Packers star Sterling Sharpe.