Rice and Smith on early list for Hall of Fame

"Jerry Rice and Emmitt Smith headline the preliminary list of modern-era nominees for induction next year in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The list released Saturday includes 131 players, coaches and contributors. Hall of Fame selectors will chose 25 semifinalists by Nov. 27, and 15 finalists by Jan. 7. Voting will take place Feb. 6, the day before the Super Bowl. Other modern-era nominees include Tim Brown, Herschel Walker, Cris Carter, Andre Reed and Sterling Sharpe. Former commissioner Paul Tagliabue is also on the list. They join two previously announced senior nominees, former Detroit Lions cornerback Dick LeBeau and former Broncos running back Floyd Little. Chargers DT Williams ..."

This is a star study HOF class. Rice and Smith are in easily. Cris Carter will also probably be in.