In the realm of American football, there exists a man whose name is synonymous with success and championships, yet he is still to secure a spot in the prestigious Pro Football Hall of Fame. That man is Robert Kraft, the driving force behind the New England Patriots’ six Super Bowl titles and a key figure in the league’s transformation.
For over a decade, Kraft’s loyal supporters have been tirelessly advocating for his induction into the Hall of Fame. They highlight his pivotal role in not only leading the Patriots to glory on the football field but also in his contributions to media and labor negotiations that have played a significant role in shaping the modern NFL.
The exclusion of Kraft from the Hall of Fame is a head-scratcher, especially when compared to the recent inductions of other owners. Eddie DeBartolo Jr., the former owner of the San Francisco 49ers, was inducted in 2016 despite facing legal troubles that led to his ouster from the team.
Following in DeBartolo’s footsteps, Jerry Jones of the Dallas Cowboys was enshrined in 2017 amidst a glitzy celebration. This development left Kraft and his inner circle bewildered and frustrated, as they felt that his contributions to the league’s success were just as deserving of recognition.
“There’s no box that Bob Kraft doesn’t check to get into the Hall of Fame,” remarked Hall of Famer Bill Polian. “When he didn’t get in last year, I lost sleep over it. I’m still sick at heart about it.”
Despite Kraft’s football empire being valued at billions of dollars and boasting six Lombardi trophies, he continues to be on the outside looking in at Canton, Ohio. Three owners have been enshrined in the past decade, with Kraft being overlooked each time. At the age of 83, he remains steadfast in his pursuit of the Hall of Fame, eagerly awaiting the bronze bust that many believe should already be adorning his likeness.
“I’m a big fan of Jimmy Stewart’s ‘It’s a Wonderful Life.’ If Robert Kraft wasn’t born, there would be no NFL team in New England,” remarked Patriots PR chief Stacey James.
The frustration only intensified for Kraft and his supporters after Jones’ induction, further fueling their quest to see Kraft rightfully take his place among the legends of the game in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.