OrangeMane BRONCOS HALL-OF-FAME Thread

[BroncoBuff]

I've posted this thread three times now, and each time I try to incorporate everybody's thoughts.

DENVER BRONCOS - Pro Football Hall of Fame

One 'IN' . . .
JOHN ELWAY

One 'LOCK' . . .
SHANNON SHARPE - Most TE catches, yards and TDs ever, 3 Lombardis, All-Decade Team 1990s ... Just two years away now, make your reservations.

Four very, very close . . .
GARY ZIMMERMAN - A finalist this year. Two NFL All-Decade teams, 7 Pro Bowls, 2 USFL All-Pros, 1 Lombardi. One HOF elector said, "there's not enough juice in the room for him yet," but with OTs Bob Brown and Rayfield Wright getting in recently after long waits, it's probably just a matter of time. Rayfield's biggest plusses? NFL All-Decade team and a SB win. Well, Zim has an SB and TWO All-Decade teams.
CHAMP BAILEY - 7 seasons, 6 Pro Bowls. At least three 1st team All-Pro designations. Three or four more Pro Bowls in a row and he's probably in. It seems like voters love guys who were "the dominant player in the league at his position during his career."
STEVE ATWATER - 8 Pro Bowls in 9 year-span, 2 Lombardis, NFL All-Decade team 1990s. Was eligible this year (I think - or next year). Nobody talks much about him - he's sneaking up on us. Imho, I think he'll shock us - maybe next year.
MIKE SHANAHAN - More than two Lombardis: He now has NINE Conference ch-ship appearances in his 21 year NFL career. And the most wins ever by an NFL coach over a 10-year span (I think). In the past 14 years (incl. SF), Shanny’s offenses have finished Top 4 in the NFL NINE TIMES (plus 5th last year). His personal mentoring made HOF careers happen for two of the All-Time Top 5 QB's (twice for Elway: 84-90 and 95-98).

Five might have a chance . . .
TERRELL DAVIS - Despite better stats than Gale Sayers, the “system” works against him, as does his shortened career.
RANDY GRADISHAR - His star hasn’t faded completely – he's hanging around. Veterans’ Committee might come through …
TOM NALEN - Anchored best OL of the 90s to two Lombardis and a 2000 yard runner, but missed All-Decade team. I think he needs a couple more Pro Bowls ... last year’s Pro Bowl snub hurt (Bronco O-Line haters?), but with LeCharles Bentley out, he might get that important 5th Pro Bowl this year. Wabbit thinks he'll get in.
ROD SMITH - Even more than Nalen, Rod needs some more good years. Although Rod will probably make the Top 10 All-Time in catches THIS YEAR (really!), only 2 of the top 15 All-Time are actually in the HOF (Largent, Lofton). The Hall is very tough on latter-day big-number WRs ...
DAN REEVES - Excellent career coaching pct. Took 3 franchises to playoffs, 2 to Super Bowl (though he's 0-4 there) ... and remember: He won a Lombardi as a player, and another as an assistant (against us I think). I know a lotta guys are hating, but brace yourselves ... imo, he's another guy who might shock us. Marv Levy is in - Reeves probably should be too. (Levy didn't play, and had LOADS of talent for the ONE team he brought to the playoffs and SB)

Very doubtful . . .
KARL MECKLENBURG - The originator of today's Willie McGinest, Jason Taylor types ... but there doesn't seem too much buzz around him ...
FLOYD LITTLE - A newbie started a thread here last week that reminded us that Floyd led the NFL in rushing one year, and at the time had I think the most yards ever in five-year span (?) Probably single-handedly kept the team from being sold to Chicago or Birmingham interests ... "Face of the Franchise." Not sure that plays in Canton, though ...
LIONEL TAYLOR - An original "Ring of Fame" is the best he'll get ...
JASON ELAM - 63-yarder, total points and team successes look great, but just one K in HOF (Stenerud), and Jason's career FG pct is not all that great
TOM JACKSON - No chance. Great memories, though ...
DENNIS SMITH - Never even a finalist?! Ronnie Lott says DS49 'hit much harder than me.' (REALITY CHECK: There's only 17 DBs in the entire HOF. And that's CBs and Safeties combined!)
LOUIS WRIGHT - My personal all-time favorite Bronco, but just 4 Pro Bowls, 2 SB losses .... no shot (See "REALITY CHECK" under DS49).
RICH JACKSON - "Tombstone" was Deacon Jones in a media desert ... gotta give Al Davis a little credit, and I've always thought this quote is the one reason I don't want him to suffer and die: he said Rich was the best pure pass-rusher he ever saw.


Okay .... thoughts? I need feedback for next February when I post this again ....

[gunns]

Zimmerman has the odus of being an offensive lineman. He will eventually get in. I'm thinking the same for Smith. Shanahan and Reeves will get in. Davis, Gradishar, Tombstone and Little, it will be a travesty of justice if they never get in. Keeping my fingers crossed on Atwater but I don't think it will happen next year.

[-Slap-]

DENNIS SMITH - Never even a finalist?! Ronnie Lott says DS49 'hit much harder than me.' (REALITY CHECK: There's only 17 DBs in the entire HOF. And that's CBs and Safeties combined!)
LOUIS WRIGHT - My personal all-time favorite Bronco, but just 4 Pro Bowls, 2 SB losses .... no shot (See "REALITY CHECK" under DS49).

Its sadly ironic the number of Pro Bowls a player made would matter. Donnie Shell and Lester Hayes were undeservedly chosen to at least a couple teams in place of Smith and Wright, respectively. Those snubs 20+ years ago are perpetuated today by shallow, lazy, uninformed HOF voters who, with a glance, dismiss them for their lack of Pro Bowl appearances.

[12th man]

Floyd Little, Randy Gradishar, and Dennis Smith all should have been in by now. Atwater will probably join this list as the years go by. :pity:

[bpc]

I feel like Shanahan, Sharpe, Zimm, Gradishar and TD are locks at some point and time. That is just my feeling. Sharpe and Zimm will get in within the next five years. I have hope that Randy will too. TD and Shanahan are much farther out. Probably about 15 years. Shanahan will get in once he retires. I imagine he'll be a 1st ballot HOF. Most coaches have a calling card to put in their hat... Shanahan is no different. He'll probably have one of the highest winning percentages in football when he is done, plus, he'll go down as leader of one of the greatest rushing attacks in the history of the game. I think he'll pick up another super bowl... possibly two. Maybe three. Depends on Cutler. That will cement him as possibly the greatest of all time.

Rod Smith, Champ, Atwater, and Nalen have a chance. Rod and Nalen will have to produce two or three more years at their current level in my estimation to get a hard look. It will be tougher for Nalen. He will need to play in a couple more pro bowls in my estimation. Champ is great and just needs to keep up hs current pace for maybe four or five more seasons and he could possibly be a 1st ballot guy. He would benefit more by having a bunch of picks like he had last season. Atwater is trying to get by on his mystique of being a big hitter at the safety position. He has the pro bowls but safeties are devalued in general. He never really had a ton of picks but his leading us in tackles every season speaks volumes about him. If one ever needs to look at what a dominating safety does to a game, check Super Bowl 32. Possibly Atwater's best game as a pro. If he would have grabbed that pick... he could have arguably been co-mvp with TD in that game, his impact was that big. That being said, I still think he is at least 15 years before getting in. Old school guys like Dr. Z are going to pick all of their other favorite players before Atwater. He never got the respect he deserved because of Denver's location.

All the other guys... i'm not too sure.

[Maximus]

This is one of the most delusional posts I have read in a while. Dennis Smith, Terrell Davis... The Rat has not won more than 2 SB's... Get that one through your skull. There are players that sit the bench on multiple championship teams... Do they deserve recognition just for being on the team... Only the head coach gets that recognition.

Champ Bailey... He's no Deion Sanders and he has no championships to justify a mention at this point... Pro Bowl sure but he's not HOF material Redskins or Donkey.

Shannon Sharpe the ignorant horse looking donkey will get in... Not first ballot but I think he'll make it quick!

Steve Atwater... You'll never make it in because of a bunch of bone crunching hits... Thinking he has a chance is pure homerism.

Rod Smith will have to wait a while but, I think he will make it. The next few years are important.

Dan Reeves will make it. The rest can forget it...

[Archie]

Your lock's and close should all get in eventually. TD won't get in despite his amazing numbers. His career was just too short for them. Gradishar should but I have a nasty feeling he'll always be looking in from the outside.

I think Rod will get in. He's finally getting the kind of respect around the league for the incredible quality player he is. By the time he's up every voter will be looking at Rod's name and saying "that's the kind of player we want in the hall". His numbers are decent enough and his amazing quality as a person will carry him over the top.

The only other one on the list who I think has a shot is Nalen and it's a long shot. The rest, despite their greatness won't get the votes to get them in the hall.

[Maximus]

I feel like Shanahan, Sharpe, Zimm, Gradishar and TD are locks at some point and time. That is just my feeling. Sharpe and Zimm will get in within the next five years. I have hope that Randy will too. TD and Shanahan are much farther out. Probably about 15 years. Shanahan will get in once he retires. I imagine he'll be a 1st ballot HOF. Most coaches have a calling card to put in their hat... Shanahan is no different. He'll probably have one of the highest winning percentages in football when he is done, plus, he'll go down as leader of one of the greatest rushing attacks in the history of the game. I think he'll pick up another super bowl... possibly two. Maybe three. Depends on Cutler. That will cement him as possibly the greatest of all time.

Rod Smith, Champ, Atwater, and Nalen have a chance. Rod and Nalen will have to produce two or three more years at their current level in my estimation to get a hard look. It will be tougher for Nalen. He will need to play in a couple more pro bowls in my estimation. Champ is great and just needs to keep up hs current pace for maybe four or five more seasons and he could possibly be a 1st ballot guy. He would benefit more by having a bunch of picks like he had last season. Atwater is trying to get by on his mystique of being a big hitter at the safety position. He has the pro bowls but safeties are devalued in general. He never really had a ton of picks but his leading us in tackles every season speaks volumes about him. If one ever needs to look at what a dominating safety does to a game, check Super Bowl 32. Possibly Atwater's best game as a pro. If he would have grabbed that pick... he could have arguably been co-mvp with TD in that game, his impact was that big. That being said, I still think he is at least 15 years before getting in. Old school guys like Dr. Z are going to pick all of their other favorite players before Atwater. He never got the respect he deserved because of Denver's location.

All the other guys... i'm not too sure.


Why did you ruin a perfectly good post with the delusion of Terrell Davis... Terrell Davis doesn't have enough yards or time to make it... Again, he's no Sayers!!!

Nalen... Offensive lineman... Tough road... No very likely even with more pro-bowls. Look How long it took Rayfield Wright!

[Maximus]

Its sadly ironic the number of Pro Bowls a player made would matter. Donnie Shell and Lester Hayes were undeservedly chosen to at least a couple teams in place of Smith and Wright, respectively. Those snubs 20+ years ago are perpetuated today by shallow, lazy, uninformed HOF voters who, with a glance, dismiss them for their lack of Pro Bowl appearances.

Lester Hayes deserved every Pro-Bowl he played in... Post a legitimate fact that proves either Donnie Shell or Hayes didn't deserve to go... Stickum right...! Everyone used it... Just like the Tacky Gloves the WR's use today!

[gunns]

This is one of the most delusional posts I have read in a while. Dennis Smith, Terrell Davis... The Rat has not won more than 2 SB's... Get that one through your skull. There are players that sit the bench on multiple championship teams... Do they deserve recognition just for being on the team... Only the head coach gets that recognition.

Champ Bailey... He's no Deion Sanders and he has no championships to justify a mention at this point... Pro Bowl sure but he's not HOF material Redskins or Donkey.

Shannon Sharpe the ignorant horse looking donkey will get in... Not first ballot but I think he'll make it quick!

Steve Atwater... You'll never make it in because of a bunch of bone crunching hits... Thinking he has a chance is pure homerism.

Rod Smith will have to wait a while but, I think he will make it. The next few years are important.

Dan Reeves will make it. The rest can forget it...

Many give Shanahan the credit for the 49ers last SB win, including Steve Young. If Madden is in there Shanahan is a guarantee. Sharpe will be a first ballot. And if Irvin is in there, Smith will be in there. The only thing Irvin did better than Smith was flap his jaws and say nothing.

[gunns]

Why did you ruin a perfectly good post with the delusion of Terrell Davis... Terrell Davis doesn't have enough yards or time to make it... Again, he's no Sayers!!!

Nalen... Offensive lineman... Tough road... No very likely even with more pro-bowls. Look How long it took Rayfield Wright!

TD acquired his yards in a shorter amount of time than most of the others, plus had a QB that was putting up good numbers. A lot of the others were on primarily running teams to begin with. If Franco Harris, OJ Simpson, Earl Campbell and I'll even say Marcus Allen is in there, TD should definitely be in there for what he did while he was in the league. Most of those others didn't accomplish what he did and were in much longer than TD. Longevity should not be the criteria, accomplishment should.

[Florida_Bronco]

Gale Sayers only had 1 more productive season than TD. TD also averaged more yards per game over his career. I don't see how you can deny someone with his accomplishments.

Also, the fact that he is in broadcasting will keep him in the public eye and increase his chances.

[Man-Goblin]

I've stated before that I don't think TD will get in, but he should. He was the key player on a team that won back-to-back championships, one of which had a legitimate shot at going undefeated.

People forget (myself included) how good he was.

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[Florida_Bronco]

I've stated before that I don't think TD will get in, but he should. He was the key player on a team that won back-to-back championships, one of which had a legitimate shot at going undefeated.

People forget (myself included) how good he was.

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Jesus, was he a great back or what?

[Rock Chalk]

I've stated before that I don't think TD will get in, but he should. He was the key player on a team that won back-to-back championships, one of which had a legitimate shot at going undefeated.

People forget (myself included) how good he was.

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God he made people look foolish in the secondary.

I miss him a great deal.

[-Slap-]

Lester Hayes deserved every Pro-Bowl he played in... Post a legitimate fact that proves either Donnie Shell or Hayes didn't deserve to go... Stickum right...! Everyone used it... Just like the Tacky Gloves the WR's use today!
I don't care about the stickum. Lester made some teams mostly because he was a great personality and he had one big year with a bunch of picks. He began his career getting raped by Haven Moses in the AFC Championship Game and he ended it as a fat liability on a Raider team who's glory days were ending forever.

[(Jae)]

My favorite player of all time.
Shame his career ended TOO Early.

[brother love]

Why did you ruin a perfectly good post with the delusion of Terrell Davis... Terrell Davis doesn't have enough yards or time to make it... Again, he's no Sayers!!!

Nalen... Offensive lineman... Tough road... No very likely even with more pro-bowls. Look How long it took Rayfield Wright!

Davis rushed for over 100 yards in every playoff game he played in.
No running back in history had a better 3 year span than Davis.
2 Super Bowl Rings
1 SuperBowl MVP
Better numbers than Sayers

[2KBack]

Jesus, was he a great back or what?

I could watch that over and over again

[Atlas]

Shannon Sharpe, Champ Bailey, Gary Zimmerman and Mike Shanahan are all locks for the HOF.

It might take a little while for Zim to get in but he will.

[BroncoBuff]

I've stated before that I don't think TD will get in, but he should. He was the key player on a team that won back-to-back championships, one of which had a legitimate shot at going undefeated.

People forget (myself included) how good he was.
Goblin that was a GODSEND!

What a breath of . . . f r e s h . . . a i r . .

I just watched that clip 30 times ... Sharpe manhandles a linebacker in the backfield, and Swayne and Schlereth seal the farside to open TD's cutback, but especially WATCH McCAFFREY! He starts in motion to the far side, passes Sharpe in the slot ... moves to the second level and PANCAKES a safety ... (to his knees anyway).

Oh, the glory.

The glory ...

the glory ....

the glory.



The glory!

[Tredici]

Why did you ruin a perfectly good post with the delusion of Terrell Davis... Terrell Davis doesn't have enough yards or time to make it... Again, he's no Sayers!!!

Nalen... Offensive lineman... Tough road... No very likely even with more pro-bowls. Look How long it took Rayfield Wright!

All it took for Rayfield Wright was for flacid dicknose to start his blitz of media whining about the lack of Cowboys in the hall. As for the longevity angle Rayfield only played what? About 8 seasons, I think. There is no formula for getting in the HOF. Just having some SI writer climbing on your jock is a ticket in.

[shaun514]

All it took for Rayfield Wright was for flacid dicknose to start his blitz of media whining about the lack of Cowboys in the hall. As for the longevity angle Rayfield only played what? About 8 seasons, I think. There is no formula for getting in the HOF. Just having some SI writer climbing on your jock is a ticket in.

Can you post a link that says 8 seasons?

[loborugger]

Most teams in the league have fans with a list like this. A few new teams (Car and Jax) probably dont. Teams like AZ dont really have a great list over the last 20 years.

So, for arguements sake, lets say there are 25 teams with 5 guys that their fans absolutely INSIST should be in the HOF. Thats 125 players... At 4 players a year going in, thats 31 years of getting those players in. And that is COMPLETELY ignoring all the players that are still playing currently or within 5 years of retiring or playing in HS or havent even been concieved yet.

There are going to be a few years coming up where I bet at least 2 players a year will be first ballot HOFs... Brown, Rice, Sharpe, Smith, Carter, etc.

Long and short of it is this. I dont see a surge of Broncos making the hall.

Sharpe is in, probably first ballot.

Other than that, the list will be pretty bleak. Shanny will get consideration, along with Reeves. However, Reeves never won the ring as an HC and his career as a player doesnt carry him into the hall. Shanny will be a lock if he can get another ring now that he has an almost completely new cast.

Bailey gets in with a couple of rings, maybe - depending on the roll he played.... Smith gets shut out (look at the glut of recievers looking to get in... Monk sticks out) along with Davis, Atwater and the rest of the crew.

Its not that I dont love this list of guys, its just the way it is.

[Jason in LA]

On the TD list, add that he is the best playoff back ever. Most yards per game, most yards per average, and most consecutive 100 yard games. When it comes to yards per game and yards per carry, the 2nd place guy isn't even close. TD has 152 yards per game(would have been more if he wasn't pulled a couple times), 2nd is Riggins with 111. TD averaged 5.9 ypc, 2nd was Dickerson at 5.2. Against the very best, TD was the very best.

[Iowa Bronco]

While I am afraid that TD will have to wait to get it, in addition to all of the other things he accomplished, there is one more that should get him in: His 2000 yard season. Only a handful of players have accomplsihed that feat, and only Jamal Lewis has done it since then. All of those who rushed for 2000 in a season before TD are in, and with the other accomplishments that have mentioned, he should be a lock.

That said, after reading some of the idiots who pronounce that he wasn't good enough for a long enough period, and listening to some of the pundits on the NFL Network and on ESPN, I have a feeling it will take a few years for him to get in. One thing we need is someone among the voters who will standup for him and the other Broncos. Wood and Adam Schfter haven't done too much for us in the past.

[BroncoBuff]

I agree with loborugger's bleak assessment, with the exception of Atwater.

Champ was a reach in the "very close" category, but if he makes 4 or 5 more Pro Bowls in a row, as consensus #1 CB in league, All Decade, etc ... I like his chances.

My opinion:

NO: Tom Nalen, Rod Smith
YES: Sharpe, Atwater, Zimmerman

JURY'S STILL OUT: Shanny, Reeves, Champ, TD

[gunns]

I agree with loborugger's bleak assessment, with the exception of Atwater.

Champ was a reach in the "very close" category, but if he makes 4 or 5 more Pro Bowls in a row, as consensus #1 CB in league, All Decade, etc ... I like his chances.

My opinion:

NO: Tom Nalen, Rod Smith
YES: Sharpe, Atwater, Zimmerman

JURY'S STILL OUT: Shanny, Reeves, Champ, TD

If Marv Levy, Madden and eventually Parcells get in Shanahan and Reeves should be shoo ins. And if Michael Irvin is in there Smith should be also.

[Vegas_Bronco]

That's alright if your gonna put my man Elam in the 'bagged' column - but remember he is already in Canton with a 'the shoe' that kicked a 63 yard NFL record tying FG - eat it up!

[Vegas_Bronco]

I guarantee if the Broncs win another SB, Rod Smith, Nails, Shanny and Champ will all go in (period).

[Vegas_Bronco]

Sorry ... nothing personal. I love the guy too ...

Great posts and thread! I can't believe the run the Broncos have had in the past 20 years. This franchise is amazinG! There is something sweeter than having been enshrined at a national level and that is creating a high caliber franchise (team) with two rings and a lot of AFC championships - nothing better for the fans and some amazing memories have been created. I'd much rather have a great franchise over the long haul than 3-4 icons thrown in at Canton - who knows maybe we'll get 3-4 anyway?!

[BroncoBuff]

That's alright if your gonna put my man Elam in the 'bagged' column - but remember he is already in Canton with a 'the shoe' that kicked a 63 yard NFL record tying FG - eat it up!
Sorry ... nothing personal. I love the guy too ...

Anybody know for sure when Atwater is eligible? It's this year or next ...

[Spider]

Why did you ruin a perfectly good post with the delusion of Terrell Davis... Terrell Davis doesn't have enough yards or time to make it... Again, he's no Sayers!!!

Explain John Riggins , Does Carson belong in the HOF before Gradishar ?
Plenty of injustice against the Broncos ...... Iforget what voter said it ,but he claimed Denver pumped up Gradishars #'s .........TD belongs just off his post season preformance alone .. no one has done what TD has done ...........

[Orange_Beard]

CHAMP BAILEY- The play he made against the Pats in the play-off is the type of play that puts guys in the hall.
that was the ballgame, Pats score there we lose. Champ's play changed that game.
Best single play I have ever seen in person.

[Orange_Beard]

TD- flim/TV did not do the guy justice. Seeing him live was unreal. He was at a differnt level.

[Steve Sewell]

Why did you ruin a perfectly good post with the delusion of Terrell Davis... Terrell Davis doesn't have enough yards or time to make it... Again, he's no Sayers!!!

Nalen... Offensive lineman... Tough road... No very likely even with more pro-bowls. Look How long it took Rayfield Wright!

How do explain Lynn Swann being in the HOF????

[rovolution]

I've stated before that I don't think TD will get in, but he should. He was the key player on a team that won back-to-back championships, one of which had a legitimate shot at going undefeated.

People forget (myself included) how good he was.

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Damn, Eddy Macs block was siiiicccckkkkkk. Damn, i miss him!!!!! Lelie could never do crazy s*** like that. I doubt Javon could either (no offense). I hope B. Marshall brings back the pride and aggresiveness E. Mac brought to the run blocking and that Rod continues to bring to this day.

[Steve Sewell]

This is one of the most delusional posts I have read in a while. Dennis Smith, Terrell Davis... The Rat has not won more than 2 SB's... Get that one through your skull. There are players that sit the bench on multiple championship teams... Do they deserve recognition just for being on the team... Only the head coach gets that recognition.

Champ Bailey... He's no Deion Sanders and he has no championships to justify a mention at this point... Pro Bowl sure but he's not HOF material Redskins or Donkey.

Shannon Sharpe the ignorant horse looking donkey will get in... Not first ballot but I think he'll make it quick!

Steve Atwater... You'll never make it in because of a bunch of bone crunching hits... Thinking he has a chance is pure homerism.

Rod Smith will have to wait a while but, I think he will make it. The next few years are important.

Dan Reeves will make it. The rest can forget it...


Why is Howie Long in the HOF and not Simon Fletcher? Howie had 84.5 sacks but his total was 92 because he had 7.5 sacks in his rookie year before sacks were an NFL stat.

By comparison, why isn't Simon Fletcher in the HOF with his 97.5 sacks?

Howie Long...one of the most overrated d lineman of all time!!!!!

[Spider]

Why is Howie Long in the HOF and not Simon Fletcher? Howie had 84.5 sacks but his total was 92 because he had 7.5 sacks in his rookie year before sacks were an NFL stat.

By comparison, why isn't Simon Fletcher in the HOF with his 97.5 sacks?

Howie Long...one of the most overrated d lineman of all time!!!!!
Oh Snap that left a mark ..........;D

[Steve Sewell]

Most teams in the league have fans with a list like this. A few new teams (Car and Jax) probably dont. Teams like AZ dont really have a great list over the last 20 years.

So, for arguements sake, lets say there are 25 teams with 5 guys that their fans absolutely INSIST should be in the HOF. Thats 125 players... At 4 players a year going in, thats 31 years of getting those players in. And that is COMPLETELY ignoring all the players that are still playing currently or within 5 years of retiring or playing in HS or havent even been concieved yet.

There are going to be a few years coming up where I bet at least 2 players a year will be first ballot HOFs... Brown, Rice, Sharpe, Smith, Carter, etc.

Long and short of it is this. I dont see a surge of Broncos making the hall.

Sharpe is in, probably first ballot.

Other than that, the list will be pretty bleak. Shanny will get consideration, along with Reeves. However, Reeves never won the ring as an HC and his career as a player doesnt carry him into the hall. Shanny will be a lock if he can get another ring now that he has an almost completely new cast.

Bailey gets in with a couple of rings, maybe - depending on the roll he played.... Smith gets shut out (look at the glut of recievers looking to get in... Monk sticks out) along with Davis, Atwater and the rest of the crew.

Its not that I dont love this list of guys, its just the way it is.


Yes, but the problem is, there is a team that has been to more Super Bowls than any other team except for 1 (the Cowboys), and has one ****ing Hall of Famer. It's a ****ing travesty.

[Steve Sewell]

If Marv Levy, Madden and eventually Parcells get in Shanahan and Reeves should be shoo ins. And if Michael Irvin is in there Smith should be also.

Yes, Marv Levy and his 4 SB losses are in. If Shanahan continues at his clip of W's for 4-5 more years, and doesn't go in, killing some sportswriters may be in order.

[Spider]

Yes, but the problem is, there is a team that has been to more Super Bowls than any other team except for 1 (the Cowboys), and has one ****ing Hall of Famer. It's a ****ing travesty.
East coast media bias..... it is real

[Steve Sewell]

Oh Snap that left a mark ..........;D

Yes, in other words, NFL HOF voters still have a hard on for the teams that were good in the 60's and 70's.

Maximus' team has been a beneficiary of that and he's bitching about Broncos players getting in? What a ****ing joke...

[Spider]

Yes, in other words, NFL HOF voters still have a hard on for the teams that were good in the 60's and 70's.

Maximus' team has been a beneficiary of that and he's b****ing about Broncos players getting in? What a ****ing joke...
you cant blame max , Imean look Denver is light years ahead of the Raiders , we own the Raiders since 1977 , sure he will say the Record goes back to 1960 , but he knows that since 1977 Denver has stomped a new ásshole in the Raiders .......Now he is starting to see Denver got the shaft in the HOF voting , and he hates to see anything good happen to Denver .....This my friend is across we have to carry now ,when you are the Best people want you to fall and lets face it we are the best ..........

[Jason7730]

good post spider!....

[pyrogrrl12]

I think that Gradishar, Mecklenburg and Atwater should all have a good chance of being inducted. Unfortunately I don't think that they will be. Heck at times I wonder if Jason Elam ever will be...and I only think he will get in just because of his 63-yard field goal.

I don't think that many broncos will get into the hall. Just because we are not the cowboys, steelers or even the 49'ers...it is bull ****.

[Spider]

I think that Gradishar, Mecklenburg and Atwater should all have a good chance of being inducted. Unfortunately I don't think that they will be. Heck at times I wonder if Jason Elam ever will be...and I only think he will get in just because of his 63-yard field goal.

I don't think that many broncos will get into the hall. Just because we are not the cowboys, steelers or even the 49'ers...it is bull ****.
well it is good tosee that all Bronco fans throw love at these guys .......... 2 years ago I got blasted and in several arguments , when I said Al Wilson is Better then Ray Lewis , this was before Ray Lewis was domintated by Richardson and Dunn of the Chiefs on monday night .......but in the end I am sure Wilson will get snubbed also

[-Slap-]

Can you post a link that says 8 seasons?
Rayfield Wright was drafted in 1967, but he didn't become a starter at right tackle (http://www.profootballhof.com/hof/member.jsp?player_id=258) (that's correct, he wasn't even a left tackle) until 1970 and he started until 1976. He missed almost the entire 1977 season due to injury, but returned to start in 1978. He spent 1979 as a backup and retired after the season.

So, that means Tredici was correct, Wright spent about eight years as a starter in the NFL.

Randy Gradishar started four games as a rookie. Then he started every game, except one, for the last nine years that he played, but a short career is one reason given for his exclusion from Canton.

Randy Gradishar's Regular Season Record
Year G S Tackles
1974 14 4 51
1975 14 14 177
1976 14 14 198
1977 14 14 219
1978 16 16 286
1979 16 15 235
1980 16 16 250
1981 16 16 258
1982 9 9 151
1983 16 16 224
Car 145 134 2,049

[Steve Sewell]

Rayfield Wright was drafted in 1967, but he didn't become a starter at right tackle (http://www.profootballhof.com/hof/member.jsp?player_id=258) (that's correct, he wasn't even a left tackle) until 1970 and he started until 1976. He missed almost the entire 1977 season due to injury, but returned to start in 1978. He spent 1979 as a backup and retired after the season.

So, that means Tredici was correct, Wright spent about eight years as a starter in the NFL.

Randy Gradishar started four games as a rookie. Then he started every game, except one, for the last nine years that he played, but a short career is one reason given for his exclusion from Canton.

Randy Gradishar's Regular Season Record
Year G S Tackles
1974 14 4 51
1975 14 14 177
1976 14 14 198
1977 14 14 219
1978 16 16 286
1979 16 15 235
1980 16 16 250
1981 16 16 258
1982 9 9 151
1983 16 16 224
Car 145 134 2,049


Slap, don't forget to mention that Gradishar was a Pro Bowler in 7 out of his 9 years as a starter. Lynn Swann played from 1974-1982, his stats were total garbage, and he only made 3 Pro Bowls in that span. Guess he's a HOFer, huh....LOL What a ****ing joke...

[wabbit]

More than any other...& I'm as ashamed & disgusted of/with the HOF as anyone for ignoring Gradishar in favor of guys like Wright & Carson...I wish Floyd Little would somehow, some way find favor/pity among the voters and get in.

No-one can ever deny what the Elways, Gradishars, Rod Smiths & Tom Jacksons did for this franchise, but my favorite player, ever, will always be Floyd.

Denver's first #1

[Tredici]

More than any other...& I'm as ashamed & disgusted of/with the HOF as anyone for ignoring Gradishar in favor of guys like Wright & Carson...I wish Floyd Little would somehow, some way find favor/pity among the voters and get in.

No-one can ever deny what the Elways, Gradishars, Rod Smiths & Tom Jacksons did for this franchise, but my favorite player, ever, will always be Floyd.

Denver's first #1

If the HOF is about players who deserve recognition for bringing a dimension to the game or to their position which few others achieved then that bow legged running back deserved consideration. How that man could run on those pegs remains a mystery!

Franchise Floyd. I guess carrying a team to legitimacy is something so common that won't get him a nod either.

Being a class act and not having booze, drugs, assault, illegitimate children headlines won't get him there either.

Being the 7th leading rusher in NFL History when his voting time rolled around? Pffffffft.

Sometimes I wish the Bronco organization would shamelessly pimp their players - especially those who are actually deserving.

[Atlas]

Slap, don't forget to mention that Gradishar was a Pro Bowler in 7 out of his 9 years as a starter. Lynn Swann played from 1974-1982, his stats were total garbage, and he only made 3 Pro Bowls in that span. Guess he's a HOFer, huh....LOL What a ****ing joke...

Gradishar was also the best goaline LB in NFL history. His goaline stops are legendary!

[SimonFletcher73]

2 more good years and Rod should be in

Atwater was the best safety in the 90's, should be in

never saw Gradishar or Tombstone, too young

put Simon in the damn ring of fame already

TD is 50/50 at best, what 3 great years can do for you

[The Moops]

I've always felt that Floyd should have been the first Bronco in. Obviously, Elway was a slamdunk, but Floyd has been eligible since 1981.

The fact that he managed to retire 7th all-time rusher in NFL history while the Broncos were one of the worst teams in the league and he was the lone offensive weapon is something of a miracle. Plus, he was a great pass receiver and kick returner. Unfortunately, the only thing that counts are yards rushing and super bowls. Floyd had the yards, but no rings. Even Jim Brown in his prime couldn't have taken the 67-75 Broncos to the Super Bowl. Plus, Floyd was the ultimate community guy off the field. A real hero.

I think Lionel Taylor and Rich Jackson should also be considered. Taylor dominated the AFL in receiving for the first 7 years. Jackson was the best defensive end in the NFL for 5 years.

On top of Gradishar, what about Riley Odoms, Billy Thompson, Tom Jackson, and Louis Wright?!

[Vegas_Bronco]

I think Pat Bowlen's statement about retiring #'s (standard would be Elway) was a bit too loud and may have been picked up by Canton boys.

[-Slap-]

I've always felt that Floyd should have been the first Bronco in. Obviously, Elway was a slamdunk, but Floyd has been eligible since 1981.

The fact that he managed to retire 7th all-time rusher in NFL history while the Broncos were one of the worst teams in the league and he was the lone offensive weapon is something of a miracle. Plus, he was a great pass receiver and kick returner. Unfortunately, the only thing that counts are yards rushing and super bowls. Floyd had the yards, but no rings. Even Jim Brown in his prime couldn't have taken the 67-75 Broncos to the Super Bowl. Plus, Floyd was the ultimate community guy off the field. A real hero.

I think Lionel Taylor and Rich Jackson should also be considered. Taylor dominated the AFL in receiving for the first 7 years. Jackson was the best defensive end in the NFL for 5 years.

On top of Gradishar, what about Riley Odoms, Billy Thompson, Tom Jackson, and Louis Wright?!

Louis Wright was criminally underrated throughout his career. Ask John Madden if Louis should be in the Hall. From what I understand, Wright was the only cornerback in the League the Raiders never tested.

[Inkana7]

What about John Lynch? Even though he'll probably go in as a Buc, anyone think he has a chance at the Hall?

[-Slap-]

Probably not. DBs who are known primarily as hitters tend to get shorted. Unless your name is Ronnie Lott, or you have Dr Z promoting you like the soon to be inducted Cliff Harris.

[-Slap-]

Anytime I get pissed about Andre Dawson or numerous Broncos being excluded from their respective Halls of Fame, I can always feel superior to dorks like this (http://www.cnn.com/2006/SHOWBIZ/Music/08/05/kiss.ap/index.html).

[The Moops]

Cliff Harris is now a seniors candidate. The Seniors Committee has already nominated 2 cowboys in the last 3 years: Bob Hayes and Rayfield Wright. Wright got in; Hayes was snubbed probably because of his years in jail for coke.

The Seniors Committee has also gone crazy by nominating coaches over players. In the last 5 years they've nominated 4 coaches: George Allen, Hank Stram, Fritz Pollard and Madden. Coaches should be a separate category. It's horrible that with only 2 Senior Candidates nominated each year that all those coaches have kept the tons of overlooked old-timers like Little, Rich Jackson and Lionel Taylor.

[Dendave]

Mike Lodish...not so much for stats, but???
Played in 6 Super Bowls...won 2...maybe he was a great locker room presence...

[Bronco_Beerslug]

Cliff Harris is now a seniors candidate. The Seniors Committee has already nominated 2 cowboys in the last 3 years: Bob Hayes and Rayfield Wright. Wright got in; Hayes was snubbed probably because of his years in jail for coke.

The Seniors Committee has also gone crazy by nominating coaches over players. In the last 5 years they've nominated 4 coaches: George Allen, Hank Stram, Fritz Pollard and Madden. Coaches should be a separate category. It's horrible that with only 2 Senior Candidates nominated each year that all those coaches have kept the tons of overlooked old-timers like Little, Rich Jackson and Lionel Taylor.

This is a good post! Why coaches go in on players tickets I don't understand. The fact that Gradishar, Wright and Little aren't in and coaches are going in player spots ahead of them isn't right at all.

[Bronco Billy]

Maybe it's extreme optimism, but I really think TD has a very good shot despite being a Bronco and his shortened career.

Atwater, while I'm not sure he'll ever get in, deserves to get in just for that hit he put on Okoye on MNF!

[BroncoFanDoug]

Louis Wright was criminally underrated throughout his career. Ask John Madden if Louis should be in the Hall. From what I understand, Wright was the only cornerback in the League the Raiders never tested.

I agree - Louis is probably the Bronco most deserving of HOF. Low interceptions because no-one EVER threw against him. He was amazing.

BTB, I ran a bunch of different analysis, comparing HOFs to wins, SB appearances, and SB wins. I even included a time factor to include the fact that SB players often don't become HOF eligible for some time.

No matter how you cut it, the team that has been most screwed by the hall is the Broncos - by a significant margin. Denver has got to be considered one of the top 5 or 6 teams in the last 20 years, and we have 1 HOF?! It's absurd.

[Atlas]

I agree - Louis is probably the Bronco most deserving of HOF. Low interceptions because no-one EVER threw against him. He was amazing.



That's redicules. Wright was a great CB but he is not the "most deserving" to get in. Gradishar was the heart and soul of the team. He averaged 15 tackles a game and went to 8 probowls in 10 years.... It's not even close!!

http://cache.denverbroncos.com/resources/custom/Ring%20of%20Fame%20Pix/gradishar_rof.jpg

[BroncoBuff]

Louis Wright was criminally underrated throughout his career. Ask John Madden if Louis should be in the Hall. From what I understand, Wright was the only cornerback in the League the Raiders never tested.
You are so right about that .... wasn't it always funny how the opponent's #2 WR always had a big day vs. Denver?

It wasn't Lynn Swann who went off ... it was JOHN STALLWORTH who caught 9 for 117 ...

It wasn't Carlos Carson who had a big day, it was STEPHONE PAIGE who caught 7 for 151 ...

It wasn't Steve Largent, it was Steve Raible or Paul Skansi ... and on and on and on.

The common thread was Louis Wright. And just like Champ, Louie was a fierce run-support CB. Like you pointed out, those knee-jerk Pro Bowl voters automatically picked Donnie Shell and Lester Hayes so often ... and the HOF voters are just knee-jerking right in step.

Funny how the best CBs are the quietest guys? Mike Haynes, Raymond Claiborne, Louis Wright, and before his 9 picks this year, Champ .... I'd take those four over Hayes and Shell and even Rod Woodson - any day.

[BroncoBuff]

Atwater, while I'm not sure he'll ever get in, deserves to get in just for that hit he put on Okoye on MNF!
I'm with you there ... I was sad to see that Atwater's been eligible for TWO YEARS now. I haven't even heard him mentioned.

8 Pro Bowls in 9 years ...
All-Decade team of the 90s ...
TWO Lombardis ... (incl. a pick and FF on Favre)
The iconic Okoye blast ...

Those are HOF credentials, and he will get in.

[24champ]

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[The Moops]

The Broncos have totally been screwed in HOF voting.

It's too painful to look at how we stack up against all other teams, so I'll make it personal and compare Denver HOF with AFC West teams:

Raiders: 3 Super Bowl wins: 13 HOF
Chiefs: 1 Super Bowl win: 7 HOF
Chargers: Zippo Super Bowl wins: 6
Denver: 2 Super Bowl wins: 1

Of course, I'm not counting HOF players, like Dorsett or Unitas who played for Denver and San Diego, respectfully, for a year.