"Must have rubbed folks the wrong way": NFL fans react as Panthers legend Steve Smith Sr. gets snubbed from 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame finalists

Steve Smith Sr. was left off the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026 finalist list despite being one of the NFL’s all-time top receivers. The Panthers legend, who is eighth in career receiving yards and a triple crown winner, was previously a finalist but didn't make the final 15.

Fans were disappointed and frustrated with Smith's snub.

"Steve Smith must have really rubbed some folks in the media the wrong way. I would pick him over every WR listed here to make the HOF," a fan wrote.

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"What did Steve Smith do to the voters smh," one fan tweeted. "Smh Steve Smith continues to get screwed," another fan wrote. "Steve Smith has been a finalist for the last 3 or more years what is this???" a fan said. "No Steve Smith Sr is egregious," one fan commented. "@NFL HoF is a joke as long as Steve Smith Sr. remains out. -8th All-Time in Receiving Yards (4 of the next 5 behind him are in) -14th All-Time in Receptions -9th All-Time in All-Purpose Yards (Stats per ProFootballReference) PUT STEVE IN, NOW! #NFL," another fan said.

Smith’s omission came as Luke Kuechly, Drew Brees and Larry Fitzgerald earned finalist spots. The Hall of Fame selection process was exceptionally competitive this year as rule changes reduced the number of modern-era players chosen.

Smith spent 13 seasons with Carolina and finished his career with Baltimore. He was a five-time Pro Bowler and two-time first-team All-Pro. However, voters opted for other wide receivers and veterans with strong cases.

Steve Smith Sr. left out as 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame finalists are announced

Steve Smith Sr. was left off the modern-era finalist list for the Pro Football Hall of Fame this year. Voters finalized the remaining candidates for the Class of 2026.

The finalist group features several high-profile first-year eligibles, including Drew Brees, Larry Fitzgerald, Frank Gore and Jason Witten. They are joined by holdover candidates Willie Anderson, Torry Holt, Luke Kuechly, Eli Manning, Terrell Suggs, Reggie Wayne, Darren Woodson, Kevin Williams and Marshal Yanda.

Only a limited number of modern-era players will be inducted. Smith’s exclusion keeps his Hall of Fame wait going despite another crowded and star-studded finalist class.

Edited by Victor Ramon Galvez