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Jerry Rice, Emmitt Smith Lead 2010 Hall Of Fame Nominees

Sep 19, 2009 – 6:30 PM
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Calvin Watkins

Calvin Watkins %BloggerTitle%

Jerry Rice and Emmitt SmithThe Pro Football Hall of Fame announced the nominees for induction into its Class of 2010 on Saturday.

Wide receiver Jerry Rice and running back Emmitt Smith headline a group of 131 players, coaches and contributors that make up the list of modern-era nominees for election. Former Lions cornerback and current Steelers defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau and former Broncos running back Floyd Little are the two senior nominees that were picked in August by the Hall of Fame's Senior Selection Committee.

The semifinalists will be announced on Nov. 27, and the modern-era finalists will be chosen on Jan. 7. The entire 2010 class will be revealed the day before the Super Bowl on Feb. 6 in Miami.

Several key, recognizable contributors to the game were also nominated -- including former NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue, and owners Bud Adams (Oilers and Titans) and Art Modell (Browns and Ravens). First-year-eligible nominees outside of Rice and Smith include kicker Gary Anderson, wide receiver Tim Brown and running back Eddie George.

Running back Herschel Walker, wide receivers Cris Carter, Sterling Sharp and Andre Reed also were nominated. The complete list of 131 can be found on the NFL Hall of Fame's website.

Smith, the league's all-time leading rusher, and Rice, its all-time leading receiver, are heavy favorites to be voted in. LeBeau is also a popular pick to earn a spot.
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