The 2026 Gridiron Greats Hall of Fame dinner celebrated seven new inductees during ceremonies at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare in Chicago.
Former NFL players Bernie Kosar, Don Beebe, Christian Okoye, Ben Garland (Marv Levy Impact Award winner) and Gary Fencik were joined by former Canadian Football League standout Jason Riley, and Sylvia Mackey Woman of the Year Lisa McHale.
The event drew an enthusiastic crowd as Tim Sinclair served as emcee and renowned singer John Vincent entertained throughout the evening. The annual event was coordinated by Executive Director Karen Wright and her staff.
Kosar’s remarkable journey began with him growing up in Youngstown, Ohio and dreaming of one day becoming the quarterback of the Cleveland Browns. “Seeing what Coach Ditka has done with Gridiron Greats has been game changing,” said Kosar, who has lived with Parkinson’s Disease and advanced liver disease.
The Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization providing financial grants and pro bono medical assistance to retired NFL players in dire need. Services include: Medical assistance, transportation costs for medical evaluations and surgeries, housing assistance, financial assistance for utilities, medication, coordination of services for food, automotive payments and childcare.
Beebe overcame long odds after going undrafted out of tiny Chadron State in Nebraska to become a six-time Super Bowl participant. He played nine seasons for the Carolina Panthers, Green Bay Packers and Buffalo Bills. Beebe totaled more than 3,400 receiving yards and 25 touchdowns.
“I am humbled and honored. I never thought I was a Hall of Fame guy. I was just some little kid playing football in the back yard. And it just turned out to be what it became,” Beebe told the audience.
Lisa McHale and Bernie Kosar.
Christian Okoye.
Gary Fencik.
Don Beebe and Fred Mitchell.
Kim and Fred Mitchell.