NAFC Welcomes Seven New Members to Hall of Fame: Class of 2024
Written by Dale Walters & Adam Ireland
The North American Football Conference (NAFC) Hall of Fame announced its Class of 2024 last Saturday, welcoming seven new members in a historic class that added two more players than last season. These inductees represent some of the finest talent and leadership the league has ever seen, leaving indelible marks on their franchises and the NAFC itself.
Leading the class is Tom Brady, widely regarded as the greatest quarterback in NAFC history. The league’s all-time leading scorer, Brady’s legacy is defined by his unparalleled consistency, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure. His dominance in the playoffs and iconic moments will be remembered as some of the NAFC’s greatest highlights.
Joining Brady is David Johnson, the electrifying running back who captured the 2016 NAFC MVP award and led his team to a Yuma Bowl Championship in 2015 and 2020. Johnson’s dual-threat ability as both a rusher and receiver made him a matchup nightmare for opponents. His 2016 season remains one of the most dominant single-year performances in league history.
Adrian Peterson, another legendary running back, enters the Hall as a Yuma Bowl IV Champion and the 2012 NAFC MVP. Known for his relentless running style and ability to carry teams on his back, Peterson’s toughness and durability defined his Hall of Fame career. His contributions to Yuma Bowl IV are still talked about to this day.
Antonio Gates, also joins this elite class. Gates redefined the tight end position in the NAFC with his combination of size, agility, and uncanny ability to make big plays in the clutch. His MVP performances in Yuma Bowl III solidified his status as one of the most dangerous and dependable playmakers in the league’s history.
The wide receiver group is headlined by Jordy Nelson, a key cog in his team’s success and one of the most reliable deep threats of his era. Nelson’s route running and ability to create separation made him a favorite target for his quarterbacks, and his contributions were instrumental in several deep playoff runs. Nelson won titles with both the Rebels and Harambe.
Also honored this year are two influential figures who helped shape the NAFC’s formative years. Sean Metz, the league’s founder and commissioner from 2009-2012, makes his long-awaited entry into the Hall. As the architect of the league and the driving force behind the Yuma Scorpions, Metz’s vision helped turn the NAFC into one of the most competitive fantasy football leagues in the country. His impact extended beyond his duties as commissioner, as he also owned Team Metz, one of the original powerhouses in the league.
Rounding out the class is Steve Kopf, owner of the GMEN from 2009-2017. Kopf’s leadership took the GMEN to three Yuma Bowls (2010, 2011, and 2013), capturing one championship in the process. His consistent presence in the postseason and knack for building competitive teams year after year earned him respect throughout the league.
The Class of 2024 represents a perfect blend of dominance on the field and leadership off it. These seven individuals have contributed immensely to the growth, success, and excitement of the NAFC, and their legacies will live on in the Hall of Fame for generations to come.
