Former Ravens owner Art Modell is one step closer to making the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
On Wednesday, Modell was named one of nine semifinals in the Contributor category for the Hall of Fame Class of 2025 after the list was cut from 25. On Nov. 12, the committee will meet virtually to select one finalist for the full selection committee to consider for enshrinement.
"Our prayers and thoughts, and I have my fingers crossed and my toes crossed for Art and Pat Modell," Head Coach John Harbaugh said. "[Art] made the final nine finalists for the [Pro Football] Hall of Fame. [It is] richly deserved in my opinion. I love that guy. I love their family [and] what he's done to make this organization what it is, so, Art Modell for the Hall of Fame."
Modell is a Baltimore legend as he brought football back to Charm City when he moved the Cleveland Browns to Baltimore in 1995 and helped the organization win Super Bowl XXXV. The city had gone more than a decade without a pro football team after the Baltimore Colts left for Indianapolis in 1984.
Modell's contributions went beyond just being an owner as he was the chairman of the NFL Television Committee for 31 years. The contracts he negotiated led to huge TV ratings and a rise in the league's popularity. He also helped establish NFL Films, which is a staple in the league to this day.
Modell, who passed away in 2012 at 87, has been a finalist before but was denied entry by voters who are still upset about his decision to move the Browns. However, three former owners who moved franchises are in the Hall of Fame – Al Davis, Lamar Hunt, and Dan Reeves.
This year's process is a bit different than previous years as the Coach/Contributor category is now split in two. Each category will send nominees through Blue-Ribbon Committees before they are considered by the full Selection Committee.
"Art Modell was one of the greatest owners in the history of the NFL," New York Giants President and CEO John Mara has said. "He contributed in so many ways to the success of this league, and he deserves a place in Canton."
