Sterling Sharpe and Three Others Inducted into Pro Football HOF

The Pro Football Hall of Fame welcomed four new members, including Sterling Sharpe, during a ceremony held at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium on March 7, 2025. The event marked a significant moment in football history, as it celebrated the careers of Sharpe, Jared Allen, Eric Allen, and Antonio Gates, all of whom left a lasting impact on the sport.

Sterling Sharpe, visibly emotional, delivered a heartfelt tribute during his acceptance speech. Standing beside his bronze bust, he removed his new gold jacket and presented it to his brother, Shannon Sharpe. This gesture honored the bond they share, stemming from Shannon’s gifting of Sterling his first Super Bowl ring. “This is why I played football,” Sterling stated, referencing his brother, who was moved to tears. He elaborated on the significance of the Super Bowl ring, saying, “I wear this ring because of love. You gave me this not knowing you were going to get another one. And I prayed to God: ‘Please, God, let him get another.’ God blessed him with two.”

The Sharpe brothers made history by becoming the first sibling duo in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. While Sterling Sharpe, a former wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers, averaged 85 catches and 1,162 yards per season, he faced a premature end to his career due to a neck injury. In his seven seasons, he recorded 65 touchdowns and earned five Pro Bowl selections along with three first-team All-Pro honors. Shannon Sharpe was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2011.

Celebrating Football Legends

Jared Allen, the first inductee to take the stage, was introduced by Hall of Fame running back Thurman Thomas, who led the crowd in singing “Happy Birthday” to former Bills coach Marv Levy, who was celebrating his 100th birthday. Allen, known for his trademark cowboy hat, shared his motivations for success. “Why is what makes you different; it’s your long game,” he remarked. “It’s the motivation that drives you to do all necessary action steps to achieve your goal.” Over a 12-season career, Allen achieved five Pro Bowl selections, four All-Pro honors, and recorded 136 sacks.

Eric Allen followed, recognized as a six-time Pro Bowl cornerback who played for the Philadelphia Eagles, New Orleans Saints, and Oakland Raiders. Presenting alongside one of his four sons, Allen expressed gratitude to the Eagles organization, stating, “I grew up in Philadelphia. I became a man there.” He also acknowledged current Raiders owner Mark Davis, mentioning the legacy of Al Davis and his commitment to excellence.

Antonio Gates, who concluded the ceremony with a moving 23-minute speech, recounted his journey to the NFL. Despite never playing college football, Gates became one of the 382 Hall of Famers who were undrafted. He credited former Chargers tight ends coach Tim Brewster for recognizing his potential after leading Kent State’s basketball team to the Elite Eight. “Tim Brewster saw something special in me,” Gates said emotionally. His career statistics include 955 receptions for 11,841 yards and 116 touchdowns, with eight Pro Bowl selections and three All-Pro honors.

The induction ceremony not only celebrated individual accomplishments but also highlighted the deep connections within the football community, showcasing the passion and dedication these athletes brought to the game.