Smith, Mitchell, Fletcher among ex-Washington players nominated for Hall of Fame

A handful of former Washington Redskins were nominated for enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Wednesday, the selection committee announced. 

Quarterback Alex Smith — in his first year of eligibility — joined returning nominees like linebacker London Fletcher, return specialist Brian Mitchell, running back Shaun Alexander, quarterback Donovan McNabb and cornerback DeAngelo Hall as former Washington stars on the Hall of Fame long list. 

The 128-player list was headlined by first-year nominees Drew Brees and Larry Fitzgerald. The longtime quarterback and receiver are widely considered to be Hall of Fame locks.

The next step for the 50-person selection committee requires voters to trim the list to 15 finalists. The committee will also discuss three senior finalists, a coach finalist and a contributor — typically an owner or general manager. 

Players who were finalists last year — linebacker Luke Kuechly, kicker Adam Vinatieri, receiver Torry Holt and offensive lineman Willie Anderson — automatically advanced to the next round of voting for the class of 2026. 

To enter the Hall of Fame, the retired athletes must secure 80% of the votes. The committee will enshrine four to eight players in Canton, Ohio, next August.