The NFL made the announcement Tuesday night.
Former Eagles safety Brian Dawkins named as 1 of the 15 finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame #FlyEaglesFly pic.twitter.com/V7LlKiPafW
— Jeff Skversky 6abc (@JeffSkversky) January 4, 2017
The 15 modern-era finalists will join three other finalists to comprise 18 finalists under consideration for the Class of 2017.
In his 1st year of eligibility, @BrianDawkins is one step closer to the Pro Football Hall of Fame! #PFHOF17 #WeaponX pic.twitter.com/UR84MuxeFT
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) January 4, 2017
This is Dawkins' first year of eligibility.
In response to the news, Dawkins tweeted "Blessed by the best."
Blessed By The Best!! https://t.co/HntYfCaiSo
— Brian Dawkins (@BrianDawkins) January 4, 2017
Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz tweeted, "Definition of a BEAST. Very deserving right there. Congrats Dawk!"
Dawkins guided the team's defense for 13 seasons, rounding out his Eagles career in 2008, as the franchise's all-time leader in 183 games played, and 34 interceptions.
A member of the Eagles' Hall of Fame, Dawkins was a second-round pick out of Clemson in 1996.
Former Eagles wide receiver Terrell Owens was also named a finalist.
