Hall of Fame announces 17 finalists for Class of 2012

Two first-year-eligible nominees -- coach Bill Parcells and offensive tackle Will Shields -- are among the 15 modern-era finalists who will be considered for election to the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Class of 2012 when the 44-member selection committee meets Feb. 4 in Indianapolis, the day before Super Bowl XLVI.

Joining Parcells and Shields as finalists are 12 modern-era players and a contributor.

Although technically a first-year-eligible candidate, Parcells has been a finalist twice before (2001, 2002) following his announced retirement as head coach of the New York Jets in 1999. Parcells returned to coach the Dallas Cowboys in 2003, and the five-year waiting period was in effect when he retired from coaching in 2006.