((Photo by G. Andrew Boyd, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune))
Former New Orleans Saints standout Morten Andersen and ex-LSU stars Alan Faneca and Kevin Mawae are among the 26 semifinalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Class of 2017.
Running back LaDainian Tomlinson, safety Brian Dawkins, defensive end Jason Taylor and wide receiver Hines Ward ere among the first-year eligible candidates who made the cut.
The group of semifinalists includes 24 players (15 on offense, 8 on defense and 1 special teams) and two coaches.
Andersen has been a finalist the past three seasons.