Paul Tagliabue, Bruce Matthews Headline Pro Football HOF Class of 2007 Finalists

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CANTON, OH (January 10, 2007) – Former NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue and offensive lineman Bruce Matthews headline 17 finalists for the Pro Football HOF Class of 2007.

A total of 111 former players, coaches and contributors who made up the preliminary list of nominees were reduced to 25 semifinalists before the Hall's Board of Selectors announced the 17 finalists. The Hall class will be elected Feb. 3.

Tagliabue served as the NFL's commissioner from 1989-2006. During his tenure the NFL experienced record-setting television deals, labor peace and a massive stadium building program.

WIth Tagliabue's at the helm, the NFL grew from 28 to 32 teams and revised its divisional alignment and scheduling formula. During this time, the NFL also expanded its international appeal and presence with the creation of NFL Europe.

Matthews holds the NFL record for most games (296) and seasons (19) played at any position. He spent his entire career with the Tennessee Titans franchise, retiring after the 2001 campaign.

The other 13 modern-era finalists are running back Thurman Thomas, wide receivers Michael Irvin, Art Monk and Andre Reed, guards Russ Grimm and Bob Kuechenberg, tackle Gary Zimmerman, defensive ends Fred Dean and Richard Dent, linebackers Derrick Thomas and Andre Tippett, cornerback Roger Wehrli and punter Ray Guy.

The Senior Committee nominees are guard Gene Hickerson and tight end Charlie Sanders. The HOF class will be elected on Feb. 3, the day before Super Bowl XLI in Miami.

To be elected, a finalist must receive a minimum of 80 percent of the total votes by the panel of media members. The panel will vote on Feb. 3, the day before the Super Bowl in Miami.

Enshrinement ceremonies will take place on the weekend of August 4-5.