Pro Football Hall of Fame: How are players nominated?

The all-time greats given the nod are enshrined as part of the annual Enshrinement Festival in Canton, where they don the coveted yellow Hall of Fame blazers at the induction ceremony (Aug. 4 this year) and where their bronze busts are unveiled.  

Before clicking to see our Class of 2012 picks, here is an alphabetical lists of the 15 finalists:

• Jerome Bettis, running back, 1993-2005 (Rams, Steelers)
• Tim Brown, wide receiver/kick returner , 1988-2004 (Raiders, Buccaneers)
• Jack Butler, cornerback, 1951-59 (Steelers)
• Cris Carter, wide receiver, 1987-2002 (Eagles, Vikings, Dolphins)
• Dermontti Dawson, center, 1988-2000 (Steelers)
• Edward DeBartolo Jr., team owner, 1977-2000 (49ers)
• Chris Doleman, defensive end/linebacker, 1985-98 (Vikings, Falcons, 49ers)
• Kevin Greene, linebacker/defensive end, 1985-97 (Rams, Steelers, Panthers)
• Charles Haley, defensive end/linebacker, 1986-96 (49ers, Cowboys)
• Cortez Kennedy, defensive tackle, 1990-2000 (Seahawks)
• Curtis Martin, running back, 1995-2005 (Patriots, Jets)
• Bill Parcells, coach, 1983-99, 2003-06 (Giants, Patriots, Jets, Cowboys)
• Andre Reed, wide receiver, 1985-99 (Bills, Redskins)
• Willie Roaf, tackle, 1993-2005 (Saints, Chiefs)
• Will Shields, guard, 1993-2006 (Chiefs)
• Dick Stanfel, guard, 1952-58 (Lions, Redskins)
• Aeneas Williams, cornerback/safety, 1991-2004 (Cardinals, Rams)

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