PHOENIX (AP/AZFamily) — Arizona Cardinals legendary wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald and quarterback Drew Brees were picked in their first year of eligibility as two of the nominees among modern era players for the 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame class.

Brees and Fitzgerald were two of the most prolific producers in the passing game in NFL history, with Brees ranking second all-time in yards passing and touchdowns, and Fitzgerald ranking second in career receptions and yards receiving.

Fitzgerald spent his entire career with the Arizona Cardinals after being drafted third overall in 2004. His 1,432 catches and 17,492 yards receiving in 17 seasons rank second all-time to Jerry Rice. He’s sixth all-time in career receiving touchdowns.

Fitzgerald topped 1,000 yards receiving nine times — tie

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