Wetzel: Here's how the Belichick HOF snub could get even more awkward

"Well, you can't blame him for feeling pretty vindicated after ESPN's Don Van Natta Jr. and Seth Wickersham reported Tuesday that the Pro Football Hall of Fame selection committee, full of old on-field foes and veteran reporters, failed to vote him in. At least 11 of the 50 voters left him off their ballot, despite Belichick's six Lombardi Trophies, nine conference championships and 333 career victories."

"Was there a vast conspiracy against Belichick? Was it politics? How about a final punishment for past scandals? Or was it just a product of a clunky system that saw him slip through the cracks? Only the voters know for sure, but while some secret, organized opposition is highly unlikely, Belichick has reason to be even more suspicious than usual."

"Yes, the scenario exists in which the Patriots' dynasty is represented in this year's Hall of Fame class ... but by the team's owner, not the team's coach. And that would be the same Robert Kraft with whom Belichick is currently locked in a feud. It's perhaps a one-sided feud, but still. If you want the enduring Patriots soap opera to get even more awkward, this would certainly do it."

Bill Belichick did not reach the 80% threshold for Pro Football Hall of Fame induction following the Jan. 13 vote, with at least 11 of 50 voters leaving him off their ballots despite six Lombardi Trophies, nine conference championships and 333 career victories. The selection committee includes former on-field rivals and veteran reporters. Explanations include alleged organized opposition, political factors, punishment related to past scandals, or systemic flaws that allowed a high-profile coach to be excluded. Robert Kraft is also on the ballot and could be elected, creating potential awkwardness given his current feud with Belichick. The Class of 2026 announcement is scheduled just before the Super Bowl.

Read at ESPN.com