The 2021 Pro Football Hall of Fame class is defined.
There were some easy nominees in the first vote, like former Colts and Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning. Repeated candidates who finally entered. And others will have to wait for their chance in the future.
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The 2022 class of eligible players is not so profitable – it is led by wide receivers Andre Johnson, Steve Smith and Anquan Boldin, defensive tackle Vince Wilfork and defensive side DeMarcus Ware.
So who came in? Who was snubbed?
(Note: this is the Hall of Fame class starting at 10 pm. This will be updated as more names are announced.)
Here’s a look:
Hall of Fame Class of 2021
DB Charles Woodson (Raiders, Packers): One of the best defense guards in NFL history. He had 65 interceptions (fifth in most), 183 pass deflections (183) and made nine Pro Bowls. He was also an All-Pro four times.
WR Calvin Johnson (Lions): There was some debate about whether he should get into the first vote because of his relatively short career, but that was always ridiculous. Megatron was one of the most dominant players in the NFL almost every time he took the field. His 2011-13 race (302 receptions, 5,137 yards, 33 TD) is one of the best in NFL history for any wide receiver. He was six times a Pro Bowler and three times an All-Pro.
G Alan Faneca (Steelers, Jets, Cardinals): Probably the best internal attack striker of his time. He made nine Pro Bowls and was an All-Pro selection six times. HOF is always slow to elect attackers from the line.
S John Lynch (Buccaneers, Broncos): One of the most difficult security devices of all time has been waiting for its turn for a few years. He deserves to enter. Lynch was nine times in the Pro Bowl and three times in the All-Pro, and played a crucial role in the Buccaneers’ Super Bowl in 2002.
HC Tom Flores (Raiders, Seahawks): The former Raider coach finally entered the Hall of Fame after a long wait. Flores won two Super Bowls (in 1980 and 1983). Flores and the Hall of Famer Mike Ditka are the only people in NFL history who have been Super Bowl winners as players, assistant coaches and head coaches.
WR Drew Pearson (Cowboys): At 70, the longtime Cowboys receiver was finally nominated as one of the top nominees this year. Pearson made three Pro Bowls and was selected as an All-Pro three times in his NFL career.
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