During the San Francisco 49ers’ game against the Carolina Panthers, former running back Roger Craig was seen at Levi’s Stadium in the stands, where he greeted current star Christian McCaffrey before the kickoff. Many fans at the event were surprised to see the Hall of Fame-caliber player still in the spotlight, as he has not yet been enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This moment sparked a discussion among fans about why Craig, who had a legendary career with the 49ers, remains outside the hallowed halls of Canton. Craig, a second-round pick of the 49ers in 1983, finished his career with three Super Bowl titles, four Pro Bowl appearances, and one All-Pro selection. He amassed 8,189 rushing yards and 56 touchdowns during his NFL tenure, with three 1,000-yard seasons under his belt. Despite his impressive career, Craig was not yet inducted into the Hall of Fame and had to continue his campaign for recognition.
In addition to his on-field success, Craig’s career spanned several teams, including the Los Angeles Raiders and Minnesota Vikings. His performance in San Francisco, however, remains one of his most celebrated periods. During his time with the 49ers, he became a vital part of the team’s success, including leading the team to three Super Bowl victories in the 1980s. His camaraderie with players like Christian McCaffrey continues to be a point of pride for fans, who are now rallying for his enshrinement. While the Hall of Fame has yet to officially announce Craig’s status for the Class of 2026, fans are optimistic, and his presence at the game has only bolstered his case. The Pro Football Hall of Fame committee will soon convene to select the final three candidates for the class, with Craig’s campaign continuing to gain traction among the fanbase.
This event also highlighted the growing interest in recognizing the contributions of older players like Craig. The recent success of younger stars such as McCaffrey has reignited discussions about the need to honor past legends. As the 49ers continue to build their legacy, fans are hoping that Craig’s induction will cement his place in the team’s history. While the Hall of Fame selection process is often scrutinized for its criteria, Craig’s presence at the game has once again brought attention to the issue. The committee’s decision is expected to be announced in the near future, with fans eagerly awaiting the outcome of his induction bid. This moment may mark a turning point for Craig’s Hall of Fame recognition, as the support from fans continues to grow around his candidacy.