2026 Pro Football HOF enshrinees share insights at media scrum

Larry Fitzgerald talks during a media scrum inside Umstattd Hall on the campus of Canton McKinley High School. (Photo: Gene Simmons/Ohsfbmedia.com)

CANTON, Ohio – The 2026 NFL preseason has kicked off with the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game, with the Arizona Cardinals and the Carolina Panthers to open up the season. 

Here are some quotes from the scrum:

Before all that begins, media are invited to join the newest Hall of Famers for a media scrum as four of the five enshrinees speak to a modest media crowd. 

Roger Craig was absent due to a health issue, as confirmed by personal sources. 

Adam Vinatieri hit the stage for the opening; the ex-New Englander didn’t disappoint. “I absolutely have no regret,” said Vinatieri. 

For a man who played 24 seasons, he looks pretty good. “Optimize yourself the best possible way,” he added. When speaking about his longevity in the league. 

Larry Fitzgerald, a Hall of Famer for the Arizona Cardinals, took his turn at the podium, appearing to be in excellent shape.

He talked about the sacrifices made when his career started and where it began. He said, “You know my first year was up and down, my second year wasn't a terrible year, but it wasn’t great either,” said Fitzgerald. 

Fitzgerald spoke on what it would have meant to him to have his parents see this part of his successful career. "I’m more thankful for what they did to put me in position to be successful,” he elaborated. 

Drew Brees was the final enshrinee to address the audience, with the media eagerly awaiting his comments.

He opened up about playing college athletics and thought it would be baseball over football, where his opportunities from schools like Purdue, Kentucky, and Brown led him to choose Purdue because of its reputation and a chance to play in the Big Ten. 

“A lot of people don’t know about the cradle of quarterbacks going back to Lynn Dawson, Bob Griese,” said Brees. 

He also talked about his family, his ‘why’ and how they added to his success on and off the field.

The discussions at the media scrum for the 2026 Pro Football Hall of Famers highlighted the profound impact of their careers on the sport, showcasing their dedication and the legacy they leave behind. As they shared their experiences and insights, it became clear that their contributions extend far beyond the field, inspiring future generations of athletes.