Secretary Doug Burgum Expects Teddy Roosevelt's Induction into Pro Football Hall of Fame

The Interior Secretary says the former president's role in saving football will be recognized next year.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 12:51am

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the chaotic action of a football game, with sharp geometric planes in shades of green, orange, and blue overlapping to create a dynamic, multi-perspective view of the sport.The geometric abstraction of a pivotal moment in football history, honoring the sport's enduring legacy and the visionary leadership that saved it.Washington Today

According to a report from the New York Post, Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum revealed that he expects former President Teddy Roosevelt to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame next year. Burgum said this announcement will be made during the 2027 NFL Draft, which is set to take place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. with the U.S. Capitol as a backdrop.

Why it matters

Teddy Roosevelt is credited with helping save the sport of football in the early 20th century by forcing college leaders to reform the game's rules after a series of player deaths. The changes Roosevelt pushed for, including the creation of the forward pass, are seen as pivotal in the sport's development.

The details

Burgum said he had the chance to meet with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in the Oval Office, where the two discussed plans for the 2027 NFL Draft to be held on the National Mall. Burgum then revealed that he expects the league to announce Roosevelt's induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame during the draft festivities.

  • The 2027 NFL Draft is scheduled to take place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. next year.
  • Teddy Roosevelt served as the 26th President of the United States from 1901 to 1909.

The players

Doug Burgum

The current Secretary of the Interior under the Biden administration.

Roger Goodell

The Commissioner of the National Football League (NFL).

Teddy Roosevelt

The 26th President of the United States, who is credited with helping save the sport of football in the early 20th century.

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What they’re saying

“Keep it a secret. Keep your fingers crossed, but I think we're going to see Theodore Roosevelt inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. … It's going to be announced on the Mall when Roger Goodell is conducting the draft.”

— Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior

What’s next

The 2027 Pro Football Hall of Fame class is expected to be announced during the 2027 NFL Draft, which will take place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

The takeaway

Teddy Roosevelt's pivotal role in saving and shaping the sport of football in the early 20th century is finally being recognized with his expected induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, highlighting the lasting impact of his leadership and vision.