Former 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis has been announced as a semifinalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2024. This marks the third time that Willis has advanced to the semifinal round, after being named a finalist in the past two years.
Willis is joined by fellow former 49ers player Ricky Watters, and wide receiver Anquan Boldin, in the semifinalist round. Two first-time eligible candidates, tight end Antonio Gates and defensive end Julius Peppers, also made the cut.
The 25 semifinalists will eventually be reduced to 15 finalists, with a maximum of five modern-era candidates being elected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The selections will be made in advance of Super Bowl 58 in Las Vegas, and the class will be announced live on the “NFL Honors” telecast scheduled to air on February 8.
In addition to the modern-era candidates, the committee will also consider coach/contributor Buddy Parker and seniors finalists Randy Gradishar, Steve McMichael, and Art Powell.
Willis, a seven-time Pro Bowl player, played for the 49ers for eight NFL seasons and was named first-team All-Pro five times. The final selection for the Class of 2024 will be made at a later date by the 50-member selection committee.
To see the full list of 2024 modern-era semifinalists and for further updates on the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2024, download and follow the 49ers Talk Podcast.