The Pro Football Hall of Fame issued its list of 94 nominees for the Class of 2017 Wednesday night, and it should come as no surprise that another Steelers player and one who hails from Pittsburgh lead the list of those eligible for the first time.
Hines Ward, who caught more passes than anyone in Steelers history, and defensive end Jason Taylor, who graduated from Woodland Hills High School and played 15 years in the NFL, join halfback LaDainian Tomlinson as the headliners among those on the ballot for the first time.
Also nominated in his first year of eligibility is former Steelers linebacker Joey Porter, now their outside linebackers coach.
Guard Alan Faneca, who played 10 of his 13 seasons with the Steelers, reached the final 15 in his first time on the ballot last season and returns for his second chance.
Bill Cowher, who coached the Steelers for 15 seasons, has made the list of nominees again. Buddy Parker, who coached the Steelers after coaching the Detroit Lions to two NFL titles, also is on the list.
Among others in the 94 nominated are former Steelers linebacker Levon Kirkland and kicker Gary Anderson, defensive back Ty Law of Aliquippa and coach Chuck Knox of Sewickley.
Voters will pare the list to 25 in November and then to the final 15 in January. The final vote takes place Feb. 4 before Super Bowl LI in Houston.
