Pat Bowlen, Gil Brandt named HOF contributor finalists for 2019

The Pro Football Hall of Fame announced Denver Broncos owner Pat Bowlen and former Dallas Cowboys executive Gil Brandt as contributor finalists for the Class of 2019.

"This is an exciting day for our family and the Broncos fans who have been so supportive of Pat Bowlen for the Pro Football Hall of Fame," the Bowlen family said in a statement, per Aric DiLalla of the team's official website. "Pat would be the first to say it's not just about him but a credit to the many players, coaches, and executives he worked with over the years. We're thankful to the Contributor Committee for recognizing the incredible impact Pat's had on the NFL."

Bowlen purchased the Broncos in 1984 and served as the team's CEO until July 2014, when he stepped down due to his battle with Alzheimer's disease. The 74-year-old is the only owner in NFL history to see his team accumulate 300 wins during his first 30 seasons.

Amazingly, Bowlen has more Super Bowl appearances (7) than losing seasons (6) since taking over as principal owner. Denver won three of their seven championship appearances.

Brandt was the Cowboys' vice president of player personnel from 1960 to 1988, winning two Super Bowls. Before his time in Dallas, he was a scout for the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers.

The Hall of Fame will cast their induction votes in February. Finalists require 80 percent of the vote to obtain their gold jacket.

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