Williams, Fitzgerald Among Pro Football Hall Of Fame Finalists

Two former NFL stars with Minnesota connections are among 15 modern era finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.  Former Vikings defensive lineman Kevin Williams and Twin Cities native Larry Fitzgerald, Jr. will be on the Hall of Fame ballot for the first time.

Williams was the Vikings’ first round draft pick in 2003.  In eleven seasons with the Purple, Williams had 60 quarterback sacks, 7 forced fumbles, 13 fumble recoveries and 5 interceptions, and also scored 4 touchdowns.  He also went to the Pro Bowl 6 times.

Fitzgerald played 17 NFL seasons, all with the Arizona Cardinals.  His 1,432 catches and 17,492 yards receiving rank second all time to Jerry Rice.     

Other nominees announced Tuesday include quarterback Drew Brees, running back Frank Gore and tight end Jason Witten.  The new Pro Football Hall of Fame class will be announced on February 5.