NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A significant moment in NFL history occurred as Antonio Gates, Jared Allen, Eric Allen, and Sterling Sharpe were inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in what is being recognized as the smallest induction class in 20 years. The announcement was made during the NFL Honors ceremony on Thursday night, which also marked a noteworthy year following offseason rule changes aimed at tightening the selection process for new inductees.

Sterling Sharpe, who gained entry as a seniors candidate, made headlines by becoming part of a historic brotherly duo, as he joins his younger brother Shannon, marking the first time siblings have been inducted into the Hall of Fame. Notably, two-time Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning was among those who fell short of induction this year, which is a poignant moment given his legacy and his brother Peyton’s previous entry into Canton, Ohio.

Shannon Sharpe played a crucial role in informing Sterling of his induction, allowing them to share this cherished milestone together at the Hall. Reflecting on this moment, Sterling Sharpe expressed, “I don’t think that has really set in yet... But right now it hasn’t hit home yet.” This sentiment illustrates the emotional weight of such recognition and the significance of the moment for the Sharpe family.

The class of 2025 is notably smaller, with only four inductees, contrasting sharply with previous years where at least seven players were enshrined in each of the last 12 classes. Although this is a shift in tradition, it is not without precedent; the 2005 Hall of Fame class also included just four inductees among the 18 other years which saw three or four inductees since the inception of the Hall in 1963.

Jared Allen, reflecting on the competition and exclusivity of the current selection process, remarked, “You almost appreciate it more... When I found out it was only four, it became more special.” This statement emphasizes the importance of being recognized among a smaller group and the validation that comes with it. Such a sentiment aligns with the changes in the voting structure that have made the Hall of Fame more selective.

This year’s modifications included reducing the number of modern era candidates advancing to the final voting stage from 15 to seven, a shift that directly contributed to the fewer number of inductees this year. Voters were required to select five out of the top seven candidates, with an 80% approval rate needed for induction—an adjustment from prior years where all five finalists received a straight up-or-down vote, with all five usually being inducted.

Antonio Gates, who played with the San Diego Chargers, celebrated his induction after being elected in his second year of eligibility. During his career, Gates transformed from a college basketball player into one of the NFL's premier tight ends, finishing with an impressive stat line of 955 catches, 11,841 yards, and a record 116 touchdown receptions—standing as the highest for a tight end and placing him seventh all-time in total touchdown catches.

Jared Allen’s illustrious career as a defensive end saw him earn four All-Pro selections and amass 136 sacks, peaking with a league-leading 22 sacks in 2011 while playing for the Minnesota Vikings. His career is noted for his outstanding consistency, reaching double-digit sacks for seven consecutive seasons, and concluding with a Super Bowl appearance in 2015.

Eric Allen, recognized as a top cornerback with a 14-season career, was known for his remarkable interception record of 54, including eight touchdowns through interceptions. His induction comes after a long wait of 19 years for eligibility, demonstrating perseverance and resilience in the face of delayed recognition.

Sterling Sharpe, active in the NFL from 1988 to 1994, built a remarkable career with the Green Bay Packers, earning the receiving triple crown and making a strong impact despite a short career cut short by injury. Over seven seasons, he captured accolades as a three-time All-Pro and solidified his legacy with 595 receptions, 8,134 yards, and 65 touchdowns.

As the Sharpe brothers join the Hall, they also become part of an exclusive group of father-son tandems already enshrined there, including the Mara family, the Rooney family, and the Sabol family. This induction year also saw other notable modern era candidates, such as Willie Anderson and Torry Holt, advance for another chance in the next year’s voting.

As the Pro Football Hall of Fame continues to evolve and adapt its selection processes, the stories of this year’s inductees serve as a reminder of the enduring impact and legacy that these athletes leave on the game of football.