Former Detroit Lions offensive tackle Lomas Brown will have to wait another year for a potential induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. On December 30, 2025, the Hall of Fame announced its 15 modern-era finalists for the Class of 2026, and Brown did not make the cut from the initial list of 26 candidates.
Brown, who enjoyed an 18-year career in the National Football League (NFL), spent 11 seasons with the Lions from 1985 to 1995. During that time, he earned seven Pro Bowl selections, establishing himself as one of the top offensive linemen of his era. This year marked the first time Brown advanced to the semifinalist stage in his post-playing career. He has one more year of eligibility as a modern-era candidate; if he is not elected next year, he will be eligible for the senior pool of nominees.
This year’s group of finalists includes four players in their first year of eligibility: quarterback Drew Brees, wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, running back Frank Gore, and tight end Jason Witten. Furthermore, four additional finalists—linebacker Luke Kuechly, kicker Adam Vinatieri, offensive tackle Willie Anderson, and receiver Torry Holt—were automatically included after advancing to the final seven in last year’s voting process.
Other notable modern-era finalists include offensive linemen Jahri Evans and Marshal Yanda, along with quarterback Eli Manning, receiver Reggie Wayne, safety Darren Woodson, defensive tackle Kevin Williams, and edge rusher Terrell Suggs. The Hall of Fame selection committee is set to meet next month and may elect up to five modern-era players for enshrinement. Candidates must receive at least 80% of the vote for election.
In addition to modern-era candidates, the committee will also evaluate nominees from the coach category, with Bill Belichick, the contributor category represented by Robert Kraft, and the seniors category featuring Kenny Anderson, Roger Craig, and L.C. Greenwood. A minimum of one and a maximum of three nominees from these categories will be elected.
Brown is recognized for blocking for Hall of Fame running back Barry Sanders and holds records for the most games played (263) and most starts (251, tied for first) by an offensive tackle in NFL history. Despite his significant accomplishments, he was one of six linemen who reached the semifinalist stage, alongside Steve Wisniewski and Richmond Webb, both of whom were also eliminated from the ballot.
As the anticipation builds for the upcoming selection meeting, the future remains uncertain for Brown and his Hall of Fame aspirations.
