Ten Former Bears Among 2026 Hall of Fame Nominees — But One Notable Omission ...Middle East

The Pro Football Hall of Fame unveiled 128 Modern-Era nominees for the Class of 2026, and ten former Chicago Bears are on the list. For a franchise steeped in history, that’s a strong showing — but one name missing from the ballot may surprise fans.

The Bears Nominees

Thomas Jones (RB) – Jones spent just three seasons in Chicago (2004–06), but they were some of the most impactful years of his career. He rushed for over 3,000 yards, including back-to-back 1,200-yard seasons, and was a central figure in the Bears’ run to Super Bowl XLI.

Brandon Marshall (WR) – Marshall gave Chicago one of the most dominant receiving seasons in team history, setting single-season records with 118 catches and 1,508 yards in 2012. He followed it up with another 1,295 yards in 2013, making back-to-back Pro Bowls in his first two years as a Bear.

Muhsin Muhammad (WR) – A veteran leader during his four years in Chicago, Muhammad brought stability to a young offense and played an important role in the 2006 NFC Championship season.

Greg Olsen (TE) – Drafted in the first round by Chicago in 2007, Olsen’s talent was clear from the start. Though the Bears traded him to Carolina, where he blossomed into a three-time Pro Bowler, his nomination still ties back to his roots in Chicago.

Olin Kreutz (OL) – The anchor of the Bears’ offensive line for over a decade, Kreutz started 183 games across 13 seasons and earned six Pro Bowl nods. He was the definition of toughness and leadership in the trenches.

Ruben Brown (OL) – A nine-time Pro Bowler overall, Brown capped off his decorated career with three strong years in Chicago from 2004–07, making the Pro Bowl in 2006.

Josh Sitton (OL) – While best known for his Green Bay days, Sitton spent two seasons with the Bears (2016–17), providing veteran stability at guard.

Jay Ratliff (DL) – A four-time Pro Bowler with Dallas, Ratliff closed out his career in Chicago, bringing experience and leadership to a transitioning defense from 2013–15.

Lance Briggs (LB) – Briggs formed one of the NFL’s best linebacker duos alongside Brian Urlacher. A seven-time Pro Bowler, Briggs recorded over 1,500 tackles in his career and was a central figure in Lovie Smith’s defense.

Charles Tillman (CB) – “Peanut” is one of the most beloved Bears of the modern era. Known for the “Peanut Punch,” Tillman forced 44 fumbles, intercepted 38 passes, and was a two-time Pro Bowler. He’s often considered one of his era’s most unique and impactful corners.

The Notable Omission

While ten ex-Bears were nominated, one omission jumps out: Matt Forte. Despite being second all-time in Bears franchise history in rushing yards (8,602) and a dual-threat weapon who finished with over 14,000 scrimmage yards, Forte was left off the ballot. Given his résumé — two Pro Bowls, nine seasons as the team’s offensive engine, and one of the most versatile backs of his era — it’s a surprise to see him not among the 128 nominees.

Bears Case for Canton

Charles Tillman – Few corners changed the game the way Tillman did. His signature “Peanut Punch” forced 44 fumbles, redefining how defensive backs could create turnovers. Combine that with 38 interceptions and a reputation as one of the toughest, most technically sound corners of his era, and his case for Canton is undeniable.

Lance Briggs – For more than a decade, Briggs was Urlacher’s equal on the Bears’ defense. His seven straight Pro Bowls speak for themselves, and his combination of speed, instincts, and consistency made Chicago’s Cover-2 hum. While he didn’t always get the national spotlight, his production was elite.

Olin Kreutz – Centers rarely get the recognition they deserve, but Kreutz was one of the league’s best for a long stretch. A six-time Pro Bowler and heart of the offensive line, he embodied the Bears’ toughness. Like longtime linemen such as Kevin Mawae and Jeff Saturday before him, Kreutz has a real shot to get his Canton call.

What’s Next

The 128-player pool will be reduced to 50 semifinalists in October, then down to 25 and eventually 15 finalists ahead of Super Bowl LX. Between four and eight Modern-Era players will be enshrined in Canton next August, with nominees needing at least 80% approval from the Selection Committee.

With icons like Tillman, Briggs, and Kreutz leading the charge, Bears fans will be watching closely to see if one of their own finally gets the gold jacket in 2026.

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