Robert Kraft Nominated For Pro Football Hall Of Fame

For the first time in over forty years of work, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft has been nominated for the Pro Football Hall of Fame class of 2013. Kraft is a part of a list of 127 nominees that are up for consideration.

Kraft is one of 24 "contributors" up for consideration. Contributors are individuals who have made significant contributions to pro football in ways outside of playing or coaching. Former NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue, longtime Titans owner Bud Adams as well as the late Art Modell are other notable contributors up for nomination.

Among the notable players nominations are wide receiver Chris Carter, running back Priest Holmes, defensive end Michael Strahan, quarterback Steve McNair, safety John Lynch, and defensive tackle Warren Sapp. More names can be found here.

In addition to Kraft, the Patriots are well represented on the nominee list. Former players Drew Bledsoe, Stanley Morgan, Ben Coates, Fred Smerias, Ted Washington as well as coach Bill Parcells were all nominated for the Class of 2013.

The 127 nominees will be cut down to 25 semifinalists in November by the Pro Football HOF selection committee. 15 finalists will then be chosen in January, and the voting will commence on Feb. 2.