Bill Parcells has never been one to mince words, and the latest Hall of Fame snub of his former protege, Bill Belichick, and owner Robert Kraft is no exception. Despite eight Super Bowl titles and other exceptional accolades to his name, the former New England Patriots coach was left out. Bill Parcells spoke out after a reporter referenced the snubs, drawing league-wide attention.

“Ahead of a Patriots-Seahawks Super Bowl rematch, this is what I’m hearing on: – Maxx Crosby – Parcells on Belichick and Kraft’s Canton snubs – Another Browns mess – Kirk Cousins’ future – Notes on Travis Kelce, A.J. Brown, and more,” NFL insider Dianna Russini’s X post read.

The post highlighted that Parcells’ reaction to the Hall of Fame snubs was part of wider league reporting, not a standalone comment. Soon after, Parcells made his stance clear with an emotional response when he was reached by phone for a comment.

“The snubs on both of these men … it’s ridiculous,” Parcells stated, not holding back. “They unquestionably deserve to be in.”

Parcells and Belichick worked together for almost two decades, from 1979, when the latter was hired as the New York Giants’ special teams coach. After a break for one year, Bekichich reunited with his mentor in 1981 and worked closely under him. Together, they built one of the league’s most dominant defenses, culminating in two Super Bowl victories (XXI and XXV).

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Soon after, their paths crossed again when Parcells became the head coach of the New England Patriots from 1993 to 1996. Belichick served as assistant HC and DBs coach, helping the team win Super Bowl XXXI. Over a span of two decades, Belichick became Parcells’ top lieutenant and absorbed the nuances and dynamics of strategizing defense and winning championships with a no-nonsense approach.

Hall of Fame’s History of Controversial Snubs

From Parcells’ perspective, the Hall of Fame decision simply doesn’t add up.

Apparently, this was not the first time the HOF voters rejected the legends of the game. The process has a history of controversial exclusions, especially on first-ballot eligibility. Former wide receiver Terrell Owens was inducted in 2018 (third ballot). Voters allegedly delayed his induction over “character issues.”

Former Cleveland Browns owner Art Modell was repeatedly blocked over the controversial decision of the Browns’ move to Baltimore. He was snubbed during the 2024-25 contributors voting. Similarly, former Cowboys HC Tom Landry had to wait for more than a year despite two Super Bowls and innovative coaching styles.

One of the most prominent examples to date is that of Eli Manning. The ex-Giants QB boasts two Super Bowl titles to his name and is referred to as one of the greatest players to ever step onto the field. The waiting game still continues. Now add Belichick and Kraft to this ignored list.

Meanwhile for Robert Kraft, who has been an owner for 32 years, his impact was significant on football operations that allowed the Patriots to become a dynasty for nearly two decades. Together, Kraft and Belichick became synonymous with excellence in the NFL.

The criticism isn’t fading. With respected figures like Parcells openly challenging the decision, pressure continues to mount on Hall of Fame voters. However, the 2026 class was a win for the Patriots franchise in general.

While Belichick and Kraft left out, Vinatieri headlines Hall of Fame Class of 2026

A familiar name from New England was announced as part of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026 on Thursday in San Francisco. Former Patriots and Colts kicker Adam Vinatieri earned the honor, while two key figures from the franchise’s dynasty were left waiting.

Vinatieri was selected by the 50-member Hall of Fame committee and joins a strong class that includes Saints quarterback Drew Brees, Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly, and 49ers running back Roger Craig. While the class features several all-time greats, the focus quickly shifted to Kraft and Belichick rejections.

Many around the league believe both men will eventually be inducted, but the timing remains unclear.

Both Belichick and Kraft will stay on the ballot moving forward, which means the discussion is far from over. With their legacy tied to championships and long-term success, their absence from Canton will likely remain a major talking point heading into next season.