Pro Football HOF inducts Class of 2024 in enshrinement ceremony

The Pro Football Hall of Fame inducted seven new members during Saturday's enshrinement ceremony in Canton, Ohio.

The Class of 2024 features Julius Peppers, Andre Johnson, Devin Hester, Dwight Freeney, and Patrick Willis, as well as Randy Gradishar and Steve McMichael in the seniors category.

Here are some highlights from Saturday's event:

Dwight Freeney

Defensive end, Indianapolis Colts-San Diego Chargers-Arizona Cardinals-Atlanta Falcons-Seattle Seahawks-Detroit Lions, 2002-17

In one of the more lighthearted moments of the ceremony, Freeney apologized to his mother for jumping out of his babysitter's home when he was two. He said it may have been the very same daredevil within him that created his famous spin move.

Steve McMichael

Defensive tackle, New England Patriots-Chicago Bears-Green Bay Packers, 1980-94

McMichael is battling ALS and could not attend the Hall of Fame ceremony. The 66-year-old is no longer able to speak due to the condition.

Randy Gradishar

Linebacker, Denver Broncos, 1974-83

The 1978 Defensive Player of the Year thanked Broncos fans, saying he wouldn't have made it to Canton without them. It took 35 years for Gradishar to get the nod.

Devin Hester

Returner, Chicago Bears-Atlanta Falcons-Baltimore Ravens, 2006-16

Hester became the first return specialist to be inducted into Canton. The three-time first-team All-Pro shouted out fellow returners Joshua Cribbs and Brian Mitchell, saying they also belong in the Hall of Fame.

Patrick Willis

Linebacker, San Francisco 49ers, 2007-14

In a powerful speech, Willis reflected on his tough upbringing and the motto he lived by en route to greatness. "I once said if you want to reach the peak in your success, you cannot cheat the grind, for the grind knows what you put in."

Julius Peppers

Defensive end, Carolina Panthers-Chicago Bears-Green Bay Packers, 2002-18

Peppers took a moment during his speech to give props to fellow North Carolina product and basketball Hall of Famer Michael Jordan, who was in attendance. Peppers thanked His Airness for inspiring him.

Andre Johnson

Wide receiver, Houston Texans-Indianapolis Colts-Tennessee Titans, 2003-16

Johnson is the first Texans player to be enshrined in Canton. The seven-time Pro Bowler relished the moment, saying he's "happy as hell" to enter football heaven as the first Texans inductee.