Roger Craig, a star running back for the San Francisco 49ers during the 1980s, has received widespread fan support for his potential induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. As the 49ers prepared to face the Carolina Panthers in a Monday night game, Craig was spotted at Levi’s Stadium, where he greeted star running back Christian McCaffrey. The moment sparked discussions among fans, many of whom questioned why Craig, with a career that included three Super Bowl titles and 8,189 rushing yards, has not yet been enshrined in Canton.
Craig, a 1983 second-round draft pick, played for the 49ers from 1983 to 1991 before moving on to the Los Angeles Raiders and Minnesota Vikings. His contributions to the game, including three Super Bowl titles, four Pro Bowl selections, and one All-Pro recognition, have solidified his legacy. Despite these achievements, Craig has not yet been inducted into the Hall of Fame, which has led to growing calls from fans and analysts for his recognition.
As the 49ers secured a 20-9 victory over the Panthers, fans were reminded of Craig’s impact during his time with the team. The game also highlighted the current star running back Christian McCaffrey, who posted 89 rushing yards and a touchdown. The interaction between Craig and McCaffrey at the game underscored the generational connection in the NFL and prompted fans to advocate for Craig’s Hall of Fame candidacy.
Craig’s campaign for induction has reached the semifinals for the 2026 Hall of Fame class, with a committee set to determine the final three candidates. His inclusion in the semifinals has generated strong social media reactions, with fans expressing their belief that his contributions warrant his place in the Hall of Fame. The other semifinalists include notable players like Ken Anderson, Henry Ellard, and L.C. Greenwood, among others.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame will hold its committee meeting on Tuesday to narrow down the list of semifinalists to the final three candidates. This process, while routine, has drawn significant attention from fans, who are eager to see their favorite players honored for their contributions to the sport. The ongoing debate over Craig’s candidacy reflects a broader conversation about legacy, achievements, and the criteria for Hall of Fame induction in the NFL.