Peyton Manning, Charles Woodson and Calvin Johnson headline a star-studded collection of first-time finalists for enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Jared Allen, Ronde Barber and Clay Matthews Jr. round out the half-dozen first-time finalists, who are among 15 modern-era players remaining alive for possible selection to the Hall in the class of 2021.
It’s the closest Matthews, brother of Hall of Fame guard Bruce Matthews, has come to being selected. He’s been a semifinalist several times, but makes the final list in his last year of modern-era eligibility.
Finalists are:
DE Jared Allen
CB/S Ronde Barber
T Tony Boselli
S LeRoy Butler
G Alan Faneca
WR Torry Holt
WR Calvin Johnson
S John Lynch
QB Peyton Manning
LB Clay Matthews Jr.
LB Sam Mills
DE/DT Richard Seymour
LB Zach Thomas
WR Reggie Wayne
CB/S Charles Woodson
Voters will meet virtually on January 19 to elect up to five modern-era players for a final vote. They must then receive a positive 
vote from 80 percent of the selectors in order to be selected.
During the same process, voters will determine the fates of three other candidates. Drew Pearson, senior candidate; Bill Nunn, contributor candidate and Tom Flores, coach candidate were previously selected as finalists through a different process. They advance straight to the 80-percent up-or-down vote.
Share your thoughts on these candidates here or, to make your predictions on who will be enshrined, go to our previous post on the topic.
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Let the debate begin!
In an interview today PFHOF CEO David Baker indicated that Hall is planning to announce class of 2021 on Weds Jan 20th – day after voting. Guessing will be a day long reveal on NFL network
Thanks guys …
Paul is better at the voting process than I am.
So, can two offensive linemen get voted in, will another safety get voted in, or can an interior lineman on defense, finally make it ?
What about another receiver ? Or linebacker?
Will the Hall put in a receiver like Johnson based on talent over longetivity, or make him wait ? Would they put in Wayne or Holt ahead of him, despite playing a number of years as second receiving options on their teams ?
Due to recent senior voting, I would wait on any more safeties and wide receivers.
Current Wishlist
Manning
Woodson
Faneca
Seymour
Thomas
Lets have two interior linemen, have their day.
Whats tough for the voters to decide is, how great was the Buccaneers defense from 1997-2007 ?
With two members of this defense already in the HOF, will one or two more members, like teammates Barber and Lynch, make it ?
Four players from a defense that won only one SB, is a tall order. Especially when the middle linebacker from that defence, who set the tone for Sapp, Brooks, Lynch and Barber, is not even on the ballot.
That was Hardy Nickerson, a fast tackling machine, who left in free agency, before the team won their Super Bowl. His stats compare with many HOF linebackers, but his coverage ability, helped make the Bucs defense so tough to pass and score on.
He wont be voted in either, if both Barber and Lynch make it.
Yes, Lynch left TB and played well in Denver and Barber had a very long career but the HOF will decide just how good that TB defense, really was …
This one is for you TonyP …
If Thomas gets voted in, the Dolphins will have two teammates from Jimmy Johnsons defense, make the HOF, with no championships …
While Bill Arnsparger’s defense, that went to three consecutive SBs, only has one ?
Though Anderson/Scott deserve induction, I am pulling for Thomas anyway.
I feel like some of us that comment on this site try to make the HOF team honors as opposed to individual honors. Just because the Patriots have won many SB won in the last two decades, it does not mean they will have a ton of HOFamers. In fact you may only see Law, Brady, Gronk and Seymour out of the whole dynasty. The Vikings didn’t win squat but they will probably have more Hall of famers during the same period.
My point is Zack Thomas and John Lynch and Ronde Barber should stand on there own merits. Just because Warren Sapp and Derrick Brooks are in, doesn’t mean Lynch and Barber should or shouldn’t. And the fact that Buoniconti is in, and no one else from that Dolphins period is…has nothing to do with the type of player Jason Taylor or Zach Thomas is.
The very nature of how the process works leads to some “dirty politics,” and “hand shake deals.” But let’s remember that these are People and not Football cards.
Not to pick on Brian’s post but I see this a lot on this site. That is how you make a person like Jerry Kramer wait way too long.
Having made that last post. This is who I would vote for.
1. Peyton Manning
2. Charles Woodson
3. Alan Faneca
4. Calvin Johnson
5. Tony Boselli
I understand Bill …
Thats exactly why I post them this way. It is about individual merit but we all know that winning football games is part of the process, which is remembered more than losing.
When I mentioned the Bucs, I didnt even include Simeon Rice, who will probably be inducted in the future. Were these five Bucs that outstanding, or the TB offense simply that lousy ?
Youre right on Kramer, he was outstanding but was it just his play or everyone remembering how much winning and championships the Packers won ?
This year Watson had an outstanding passer rating of over 112, making the PB but the Texans had a 4-12 record … who will remember it ?
Who remembers the HOF worthy players whose teams never won football games ? Tommy Nobis and other players are an exception rather than a rule.
Yes, many outstanding players but only few get in the HOF. Gene Brito played on a lousy Redskins team but deserves to be elected as much as Sonny Jurgensen, who wasnt a winning QB at all.
Winning as a team obviously helps with individual achievement and accolades, which voters remember all too well.
Thats the difference between Alex Smith and DeShaun Watson. Watson has the better talent and either gets sacked or throws for a big TD but will he keep winning consistently in his career, like the more game managing Smith, or possibly make the HOF with a losing record ?
Thats why Namath made the HOF. His talent and a championship. No one remembers the games he lost or the bad teams he played on.
The winners get the spoils but you cant have every player from a winning team get in, or can you ? They certainly get more consideration …
Winning generally gets you more exposure. But there are teams from with a sustained excellence with tons of HOfamers (Steelers of the 70’s, Packers of the 60’s). As well as some teams, like the Rams, who have not had a ton of success have a huge number of Representatives in Canton.
I would like to think Voters from cities would take a player, and imagine what it would be like, in the city that they cover. For instance a voter who covers the Falcons would imagine Jonothan Ogden as the Falcons LT. Would he still be a HOFamer? How many teams would have loved Joe Thomas. He is going to make the HOF even though for his career his team averaged victories a season.
It is the same reason why Donnie Shell made it this past year even though there were already 9 Steelers from that dynasty already in.
Bottom line, you either have the talent and stats to be a HOFamer, or you don’t.
It may not be fair or right but it is clear that playing on a high profile winning team (especially SBs) draws more attention to those players which can only help gather them more media focus that will help recognition for pro bowls, all pro, season awards and all decade teams-all of which are individual accomplishments of candidates (along with stats) when they case for Hall election are debated. I am not so sure- beyond the rare cases of clear outstanding talent – that it would be possible for anyone (including votes) to be able to take a player, like Donnie Shell, and imagine him on another team and what his resulting accomplishments would be – just too many variables to consider.
The very nature of how the process works leads to some “dirty politics,” and “hand shake deals.”…. this is simply human nature when you put 48 people in room and ask them to consider 15 candidates but can only elect 5. But I will say from my 20+ years following elections, and conversations with some voters during that time, and in some cases their experiences over previous decades of elections, the “wheeling and dealing” to get voting blocks to elect players was certainly a major factor from 60s into early 2000s (as was intentional blocking of certain players), and may still occur but has been really reduced when many of the old boys moved off the committee after decades together, and the recent changes to increase number on committee and diversity of views and experiences. Its not a perfect process (none such exists) but it is much better than pre 2000. I am very encouraged by continued efforts by the Hall to start replacing voters (we have seen some in last year) as more new and fresh views and opinions are always welcome and improvement.
The Rams do have many HOF players but being a glamour team on the west coast with a huge population/TV presence will do that.
Yes, they didnt win enough championships but their consistency in winning, 1945-55, 66-70, 73-85, 99- 04, not to mention having innovative offenses, not withstanding the conservative Allen-Knox years, allowed them to be remembered more than other teams.
However, for that very reason, other great players are overlooked, like Putnam, Meador, Baughan, Jackson, Robertson, Brooks, Harrah and Cromwell. Are these guys being punished for all the other HOF players ?
Maybe, yet winning more championships might have helped.
Its funny but while they got their championships in 45, 51 and 99 with great offenses, their best defensive teams under Allen and Knox, never went to the SB, though the 79 team was basically still Knox’s …
Lost a lot of championship games … 49, 50, 55, 74, 75, 76, 78, 79(SB), 85, 89, 01(SB), 2018(SB) … whew
With Wagner being selected All-Pro again, he should easily make the HOF. Though he was pedestrian his first three years with the Titans, Henry is gathering steam as well if he can stay healthy. Kelce and Hill helped their causes as well. Can the Chiefs go back-to-back ? Mathieu gets alot of support as well. I remember how his career started. He just never stopped working, though I still feel he misses to many tackles.
Another playoff loss for Rivers, though his receivers dropped too many passes. He deserves to come back but we will see.
Good game but just doesnt win enough in the postseason to make the HOF in my view.
Of all the 2020 All Pros, in terms of prospects for the Hall, Wagner benefited most
Is Rivers career over?
To be honest Paul, I dont see why all these veteran QBs cant come back, even Brees, despite rib and lung injuries. Even the Saints hinted that it would be Brees decision, which I frankly dont agree with unless he went deep in the playoffs … an upset to the Bears may hasten that call but these QBs simply dont get hit or injured enough to retire. It boggles my mind that FIVE teams averaged over 30 points a game this year …
The Rams are dinged up but they have the defense to challenge GB next week. The Carroll/Wilson Seahawks have now failed to reach a championship game in six straight seasons. Offensive line? Not enough defense?
Rivers was 19th in QBR while making $25m and Brees struggled at times and was seriously injured. And with salary cap issues their are good possibilities both choose to retire
Not sure if Rivers will come back but the loss yesterday was not hid fault. Reich was not good yesterday and neither were the receivers.
Happy to see Barber make the cut this time. Matthews will be an interesting player once he hits the senior pool. Very good player for a very long time, but is longevity enough if he was never a truly elite linebacker? Hard to say. There are still a lot of great linebackers in the senior pool, and from his own era, ibwould definitely take a guy like Mecklenburg over him.
As much as I liked Matthews and Sam Mills when they played, their careers just don’t scream Hall of Fame to me. To me, they are just taking up spots on the finalist list right now, and to me there is no doubt that Patrick Willis is way more deserving than either of them.
Mills was an excellent player but I thought he benefitted from players around him, especially Jackson and Swilling on the pass rush, later Greene but he could stop the run like Singletary … Could his USFL career push him in ? Willis will be a finalist next year if Thomas gets in, I believe …
Henry and the Titans ran out of gas today. The defense couldnt make enough stops on Jackson. Could be a great game in KC …
I would love to do a future discussion on the impact of performance in other professional leagues on Hall of Fame credentials. Most of the final borderline hall of fame players that played in the USFL are headed into the senior pool shortly, and there are also cases to be made for some players that combined outstanding CFL careers with very good NFL careers.
I would love to do a future discussion on the impact of performance in other professional leagues on Hall of Fame credentials. Most of the final borderline hall of fame players that played in the USFL are headed into the senior pool shortly, and there are also cases to be made for some players that combined outstanding CFL careers with very good NFL careers.
Guys like Sam Mills, Gary Clark and Herschel Walker come to mind for the USFL and Jeff Garcia, Doug Flutie and Cameron Wake come to mind for the CFL.
I foresee a very long wait for Matthews Jr as a senior candidate – many more deserving including several LBs and even others from his era. Who was last senior elected without a single first team All Pro selection?
Tony Romo elected to the Football Hall of Fame……College (official announcement of class of 2021 tomorrow)
Tony Romo has been elected to the Football Hall of Fame………. (College)… official announcement tomorrow
That Cleveland-Pitts game tonight is exactly what I hate about todays NFL. Like the Steelers-Jaguars playoff game from 2018, Big Ben started awful for Pitts but rather than burying the Steelers, the Browns got lax and let the Steelers back into the game by not running the football and using clock. The defense for Cleveland went from intense to awful. The NBC broadcasters were saying anything they could to keep viewers from changing the channel and by the time people turned back to the game, a Steelers “comeback” would suddenly grind to a halt and the Browns finally took over the game.
These tale of two halves scenarios from teams – obviously for gambling interest- gets really tiresome.
I have seen many occasions during regular season games, where a team will score near, or at the end of a game and the referees will make the teams kick the extra point, yet today, with the Bears needing a TD and an extra point to turn an eleven point spread into a push/bet … the Bears got the TD but the officials let the game end, costing bettors alot of money.
The Bears stunk like Pitt but I believe Big Ben will be back. Trubiskey will not be back for Chicago. The team doesnt play for him enough.
Brian: I have been watching the NFL since 1978 and what you describe happening in the Browns-Steelers game is not new nor is it a function of intent to keep viewers or appeasing betters, Teams get lax, make mistakes, some teams are great at halftime or midday adjustments while others don’t, play on defense gets sloppy, energy ebbs and flows during game. None is the intent nor “obviously for gambling interest”. Have you ever played or coached youth, high school or any other organized sports? If you did you would know exactly what I am describing, instead of suggesting some evil intent to appease the networks or gambling. And yes officials are human and make mistakes, but again lets see actual evidence, documentation of financial trails that the league or officials are being paid off by gambling interests.
And the rules were changed…….”Starting in 2018, when a team scores a winning touchdown with no time left in regulation, the team will not be compelled to attempt an extra point or a 2-point conversion”
I have watched football since 1977 as well and was a tackling dummy for my high school team my junior year but I have seen enough shenanigans in the NFL to believe without a doubt that point shaving and dubious officiating go on. If you choose not to believe it, thats your business but I know what my eyes have seen.
Back in the 70s, 80s and 90s, especially in the playoffs, huge comeback wins rarely happened but over the last ten years it happens constantly, especially in the regular season, where this season set a record for teams coming back from ten point deficits.
I mentioned already, that players like Jake Scott and Dick Anderson deserved to be in the HOF, why ? Because they were smart players who never gave up cheap TDs. The Titans last week or the Browns secondary last night gave up more TDs than Scott/Anderson for an entire season !
Look, I love pro football history, and I know that momentum can play huge roles in games but dont think I dont trust my eyes enough to know when football players are putting in effort and when they are DOGGING it.
Officials can be worse, because they can call flags at anytime and the holding they allow with offensive lines and the quickness in calling pass interference penalties on defenses during crucial times in games can border upon ridiculous sometimes.
What does all this mean ? As football fans we can love the game or at least be entertained but in terms of gambling upon football games the house will always win …
Thank you for clearing up the 2018 rule. I wasnt aware of it, and now I know it.
All I want, is effort and integrity on the behalf of all coaches, players and officials. I dont expect it from owners because they get away with just about anything. I dont watch football for shenanigans and players/coaches/officials not giving their best … It will eventually kill this sport.
As for last night, Pouncey for the Steelers could have a HOF career but last night was bad …
So how exactly does a group of players and/or officials “throw a game”? Especially since no group of two or more people can keep any secret. Plus officials especially have close eye of their financial assets examined by the league? And where does the league benefit from throwing games or looking the other way?
If you want a difference from 1970s that is a factor in huge swings in game performances and scoring, its the rules that make playing defense harder, the number of penalties that favor offense (protecting QBs, to pass interference calls etc…) making it much easier for offenses to come back in a game. And sorry but I disagree, you will find bad and questions calls by officials all through the decades, including the 70s.
The game is different now, play is not as good in many ways, but I for one simply do not buy this idea that games are fixed as it would be impossible to keep all that under wraps year after year, especially with all the legal and media focus on the game today.
And there have always been players “dogging it” but today part of that is avoiding career injuries since they only make millions if they continue to play plus all the rules against contact by defensive players including ejection. Those have all made the game safer but made defense play weaker and much more tentative. A capable offense with skill players and QB protected by OL can go up and down the field with ease in current game. That is what you are seeing today compared to decades ago.
Thats true Paul but the game is only safer if players give it their ALL on every play. Any lack of effort or fundamentals can result in injury and we both know players arent going to play hurt like they used to because like you said, they make alot more money and more “business” decisions.
With the speed of the game its obvious that the field is shortened but that’s precisely why defensive teams cannot have mental breakdowns because it will result in fast TDs, which happen way too frequently.
The game has changed a lot and not always for the better but as long as I see effort and integrity, I can be objective and give the benefit of a doubt …
Will the Steelers allow Big Ben to come back ?
Will Trubiskey ?
Pederson was the quickest firing of a SB winning coach since Switzer and Seifert.
Brian- I do not agree with your point shaving thoughts. Too much money for Gamblers to get involved with that. They go after the college sports because it doesn’t take much to throw money at kids who have nothing. Letting off the gas pedal with a big lead, for most, is human nature. I have coached HS sports for 20 years and it even happens at this level. The comebacks happen because all of the rules these days are slanted to the offense and the passing game s are much better now. If you look at games in the 80’s, teams were still huddling up when down 10 and 3 min. to go. The NFL “comeback” has just evolved.
I am not sure what the Steelers decide to do with BenR, they certainly don’t have his replacement on the roster nor I suspect are they considering a complete rebuilding season. He had an average season but clearly showing his age and limitations.
And his contract creates salary cap nightmare for them, plus limits their ability to look at other QB FAs this off season.
“As he enters the final year of his contract (2021), Roethlisberger is due a $15 million roster bonus plus a $4 million in base salary. But because of the Steelers restructuring his contract in recent years, his salary cap figure of $41.25 million is unwieldy, to say the least. ”
“Releasing Roethlisberger would save $19 million in cash, but it still would leave the Steelers on the hook for $22.25 million in dead money — or funds that still would count against the salary-cap total even if the quarterback decides to retire. ”
And I do not think Trubiskey is the answer in Chicago, he is a FA and looks like although Bears may make him a contract offer sounds as if they are not looking to invest big time, I suspect the Bears will look seriously at other QB FAs or via trades this off season. I don’t sense they are fully committed to him.
There could be as many as five QBs go in the first round. You likely have Sam Darnold available and I’ve seen mock drafts with the Falcons and Lions starting their rebuild by selecting a QB at 4 and 7 respectively. What do the Eagles do with Wentz/Hurts now that HC Doug Pederson is gone?
So we could see Ryan and Stafford available too should their team’s new front office decide to blow it up. Does Wentz go to the Colts to be reunited with Frank Reich and replace Rivers?
Sounds like Hall is going to not publicly announce election results from Jan 19th meeting until NFL Honors Show on evening of Saturday Feb 6th. Given leaks that happened prior to recent finalists released and during day on previous Selection Saturday hours before NFL Honors Show by candidates or their family, friends or agents that seems like unrealistic expectation (keep that news secret for two weeks)
Looking at the PFRA website, I ran across this list of the 12 seniors that were considered for the senior election for the 2021 HOF …
Ken Anderson
Cliff Branch
Roger Craig
Randy Gradishar
LC Greenwood
Chuck Howley
Joe Klecko
George Kunz
Stanley Morgan
Tommy Nobis
Drew Pearson
Ken Riley
Some of you might already know this list which could be considered pure speculation or not ? I am not sure and it may not matter anyway for next year, or new voting members.
No mention of older players like Dilweg, Lewellen, Emerson, Isbell or especially Wistert, who I am predicting for 2023 after Gradishar/Branch. Not looking good for the future but I hope it changes along with different voters but we will see.
Brian
I’ve seen that list before but it’s always good to refresh the memory. I think they’ll go with Gradishar next year.
PFHOF never releases official list of seniors considered, but occasionally comes out on social media – so this is likely the list but we can’t be 100% certain
It’s an unofficial list as Hall never releases senior finalists considered (except was done for centennial class)
After Pearson goes in 2021, I doubt they go with Branch, WR from same era, in 2022 but Gradishar is a good possibility
id have to agree with you brian id def go with gradishar in 2022 over branch in a heartbeat
Robert “The Greatest” is back …
Yeah, with all the Raiders from that era in the HOF, Branch may wait awhile but like Bill said, it shouldnt matter if he is qualified. Unfortunately, some people think theyre already too many Raiders and we will see because I would think Gradishar, with Wistert in 2023 but probably not.
If they go with Gradishar, it might be awhile before they take another linebacker like Howley …
my apologies i meant to say paul
If you are interested in another prediction contest this election just post your 8 selections here, deadline Monday January 18th midnight EDT as voters meet following day and there could be links even though apparently Hall intends not to officially announce until NFL Honors show on evening of Feb 6th
Prediction …
Manning
Woodson
Johnson
Faneca
Thomas
Pearson
Flores
Dunn
Prediction: Manning CWoodson Fanaca Boselli Thomas Dunn Flores Pearson
Manning woodson Johnson Seymour faneca Pearson Dunn Flores is my best guess
Looks like we now have our first ballot member of Class of 2026
Very disappointing for Brees and the Saints again. They just cant put it together in the playoffs. I think Mahomes for KC will play next week. Terrible use of timeouts for the Browns but Mayfield needed to throw the ball downfield more at the end.
Picking GB and KC in the SB if Mahomes plays next week.
Rams and Ravens were pathetic sat night. Rams defense didnt show up and Jackson tries to do too much for the Ravens rather than running the backs more, I think …
My Prediction
1. P. Manning
2. C. Woodson
3. C. Johnson
4. A. Faneca
5. T. Boselli
6. T. Flores
7. D. Pearson
8. Dunn
1. P. Manning
2. C. Woodson
3. A. Faneca
4. C. Johnson
5. R. Seymour
6. Flores
7. Pearson
8. Dunn
Reminder if you care to make official predictions they should be posted here by midnight EDT
And yes the PFHOF selection committee is meeting virtually today to select the class of 2021. Hall is not planning on officially announcing results until the NFL Honors Show on the evening on Sat Feb 6th. BUT very possible they change those plans (expect perhaps a few surprise announcements, senior? coach? contributors) in the coming days, and once the finalists have been informed as to results by the Hall in the coming days, unofficial leaks by candidates or their agents, families or friends in the days before Feb 6th is very likely (we experience that every year on selection saturday by late afternoon/early evening, hours before the NFL Honors show). But as of right now do NOT except an official announcement on those elected to be made today
do NOT expect an official announcement on those elected to be made today
Saw a post on social media just now of the “procedures” Hall has given to the voters today, made it very clear that they are not to publicly reveal the results of vote from 15 to 10 finalists and to 5, plus all discussions are confidential and there is a media “embargo” on announcing results until Hall makes official with presentation during NFL Honors Show on evening of Sat Feb 6th. I suppose Hall could decide to make a few surprising announcements or results gets leaked (very likely) but they are certainly insisting to hold off with any news on results of voting completed today.
Meeting and voting all complete, several voters making it clear on social media they don’t know who got in and those that didn’t and they won’t say anything as Hall put media embargo on news until NFL Honors show evening of Feb 6th
They won’t know the results but they will know who was in the final 5, and it would be a major shock if any of those five were not elected.
Apparently Hall changed voting process so voters today didn’t even know final 5 so as to keep those names secret
…And the debate for Philip Rivers as a HOFamer begins…now!
Some news on the length of debates from yesterday.
FIVE LONGEST
Calvin Johnson … 39:17
John Lynch … 37:06
Tony Boselli … 31:51
Bill Nunn, Jr. (contributor) … 30:38
Drew Pearson (senior) … 28:31
FIVE SHORTEST
Peyton Manning … 12 seconds
Ronde Barber … 8:11
Jared Allen … 8:28
Torry Holt … 11:09
Richard Seymour … 12:24
I picked up some indication of a debate voters had over first ballot versus recognizing deserving candidates who have been waiting on the ballot as finalist for long period of time, I take this to mean perhaps voters did not select Calvin Johnson and it many bode will for Fanaca, Lynch and Boselli
Rivers is like Gore, will not be first ballot but really hard for voters to completely ignore players at top tier of major career stats, I can see both elected 4-6th ballot. A lot depends on others on the ballot, for Rivers especially the other QBs from his era (Eli, Brees, and eventually BenR and Brady)
Rivers has stats and victories but I just dont think he did enough in the postseason. We will see …
How did Fouts and Moon do in the postseason?
Not too good though Moon won five Canadian championships. Didnt do much in the NFL playoffs and a bad road pct … I wouldnt have put him in were it not for Canada. Fouts went to two AFC Championships and wasnt a liability with a knee injury but he was a close call for me as well, though exciting …
If Rivers gets in as a thrower, they might as well put Anderson or Ryan in as well but we will see …
I doubt Moon’s CFL career was a factor, but again top 5 in career passing stats is something easy for voters to dismiss
Oops… Rivers 5th in career passing
Rivers top 5 in career passing is something not easy for voters to ignore
Moon’s CFL career gad zero impact on NFL HOF. When Moon retired, he was 3rd All-time in yards and completions. I think Rivers will make it, but could take a few times on the ballot.
I for one am not planning on screaming at the top of the mountain in 2026 and beyond that the voters must elect Rivers, as he is far from the worse candidate that will be considered, get elected or already in the Hall. His case is one that I don’t have much passion in either way. Fans and followers tend to focus on a small number of examples when its comes to whether they should be elected (or in case of someone already in). With 340+ PFHOFers its easy to find a few “weak” ones, while ignoring fact the vast majority are well deserving. Its not a perfect system, none is or would be.
Harold Baines is in the BBHOF – I rest my case.
We dont know that for certain Bill. Moon’s championships and combined CFL-NFL passing yards had to have stayed in the back of voters minds and if Rivers gets voted in, its because like Moon, he will be considered a great passer …
I understand your argument Paul …
In 15 seasons as a starter, Rivers averaged nearly 9 wins a season with all his playoff wins in the wild card round with one victory in the divisional round. A career very similiar to Moon.
Yet look at the QBs ahead of him …
Peyton Manning
Drew Brees
Eli Manning
Ben Rothlisberger
Tom Brady
Aaron Rodgers
Matt Ryan
Russell Wilson
Patrick Mahomes
Would the HOF really put in Rivers after all these guys, though Wilson and Mahomes are down the road ?
Does he deserve to go in ahead of Ken Anderson or Donavan McNabb or Phil Simms ?
If Mahomes beats the Bills and Packers/Bucs, he will already start getting his jacket sized in my opinion. He would be the first QB since Brady to win back-to-back SBs but just as importantly, join Brady in winning two championships in his first four years in the league, though Brady also won three in his first five years …
Eli Manning regressed after his two championships and Ryan blew big leads in the 2012/13 NFC Champ game and 2016/17 SB but they are still ahead of Rivers in my opinion …
Rivers will likely have several years on modern ballots before Rodgers (37), Ryan (35), Wilson and Mahomes appear on the ballot. So he will have a clear head start but it is an interesting question on whether voters will have those future candidates on their mind while considering Rivers, they will certainly have Brees, Eli, BenR and Brady to consider.
Anderson, McNabb and Simms are not on same ballot as Rivers, they would have to first be nominated as senior finalists, and with the major changes in voters in last decade I don’t think there will exist “group” thought or memories to point to where current voters think “How can we elect Rivers if we did not Anderson etc….” The modern and senior election processes are separate enough that I doubt there is much of that factor.
I can certainly agree, as stated before, the voters will have a real challenge in addressing the 2000s era QBs, starting with Eli in 2025 and several others in the following elections as they all begin to join the candidate pool. Should be real interesting to see how it all plays out-especially if multiple are on the same annual election ballot. Brady and Brees will be at top and clear 1st ballot, BenR will be close. At this point, real tossup for any other QBs in terms of 1st ballot or length of time they end up waiting.
That may be a credit to the rule changes/inflated passing numbers since 2000 as well …
Other than Brett Favre, who envisioned all these QBs playing so long ? People were amazed that Testeverde or DeBerg played a long time when back then, the average career was 10-13 seasons.
Brady has proven he could possibly play till 45 and if Brees retires will own all the records.
Oh no doubt that rule changes, especially protecting QBs and WRs are reason for rise in passing numbers, plus yes by staying healthy QBs are certainly playing longer-factors the voters will have to sort out in regards to future discussions of candidates
can we change the subject and discuss senior coach and contributor candidates for 2022
Hoping Parker/Shaughnessy … doubtful
Hoping for former player Kilroy or Vainisi but think it will be Kraft
2022 predictions:
Senior – Gradishar
Coach – Coryell
Contributor – McNally
2022 Predictions
Senior- Gradishar
Coach- Vermeil
Contributor- Sabol
Sabol is already In bill
Sorry, you are correct, I don’t know how I forgot that. It will probably be Art McNally then.
Right or wrong, Kraft likely gets strong consideration as 2022 contributor finalist (he was in mix for 2021 selection). Personally I would prefer they hold off nominating more owners, keep focus on GMs, scouts and McNally would be great pick as first NFL official in the Hall.
Paul, you’re right about Anderson and Simms. McNabb last played in 2011 and still has a few years left of modern-era eligibility. I don’t see him as an HOFer. He had six Pro Bowls, but to my knowledge, no AP All Pro awards and I really thought his play fell off dramatically at the end. He almost even seemed disinterested his last couple years. So, to me, he’s out. I don’t necessarily see Simms as an all-time elite player either. Great leader, good QB, winner, but not necessarily at the Hall level.
Anderson I’d like to have seen in, but I suspect the line in front of him is still long.
I agree with those saying they should stay away from owners for a while. Nothing against Robert Kraft, but there are a lot of people who have done more than just own teams to get in. I’m intrigued by McNally – that’s an interesting thought.
Haha … youre right BoKnows34
You gave out the list of 12 seniors being considered for 2021, from another thread in July … we had all discussed those players but I had forgotten.
2022 Prediction
Senior … Gradishar
Coach … Parker
Contributor … Kraft Hand Cheese
I understand on McNabb and Simms Andy.
I just felt those players did more on offense in terms of winning with less weapons or talent than Rivers. The SD/Indy teams had a lot of talent on both sides of the ball …
There’s a big push by many for McNally
Id Prefer Ken Anderson over Rivers Brian For a number of reasons we prob agree on
could paul or someone help me is 2022 a clear the backlog year
With only one likely 1st ballot candidate – DeMarcus Ware – (and depending on how many of the longest repeat finalists get elected this year), 2022 could certainly be a clear the backlog year
I thought so thanks Paul
Robert
I think at least 9 of this year’s 15 finalists will be elected by 2022.
Ok thanks bo
Despite a bad second half … Tompa Brady back in the SB …
Packers should have went for it on 4th down at the 8 yard line … missed two point conversion hurt the Packers …
which was worse brian the missed 2pt or the failure on 4th and 2
The play at the end of the 1st half was the real killer
With three interceptions in the second half, the GB offense should have taken advantage but TB had a good pass rush.
Even if TB stopped the Pack on 4th down at the eight, they would have been pinned back with GB having all their timeouts.
spot on brian if they convert 1 or two of those turnovers the game is different
looks like Pittsburgh Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey is newest addition to ballot for 2026, centers don’t have easy path to Hall but as member of the 2010s all decade team and with 3(2)/9 profile, he likely gets elected at some point.
If TB wins the SB, would it enhance HOF chances in the future for Lavonte David, Suh, Evans and others ?
Mahomes, Hill, Kelce, Matthieu have chances too … Bell, like McCoy could also get a ring.
Now that Brady will lead his team back to Tampa for the SB, will former Buc Lynch make the HOF ?
Rodgers getting beat yesterday is another probable MVP not winning the year’s Super Bowl …
SBs certainly do not hurt, likely help QBs more than any other position (in less we are taking about RBs or WRs setting records or winning MVP).
For the SB teams this year, only time will tell if winning helps their cases. There are not many players in the Hall without regular season or career stats, awards or accomplishments (in other words SBs got them in). Even Swan and Stallworth – noted for their playoffs and SBs – had some regular season accomplishments and they are best known PFHOFers pointed at by many that SBs are reason they are in Hall-and was likely a big factor.
Edelman is most recent example of a candidate some people push whose entire Hall case is based on playoffs and SBs (never all pro, never pro bowl, is far down on career stats), and I really don’t think he has a strong case, but if elected it would certainly set a precedent.
Of course some other players from the Patriots who could be considered for the PFHOF have SBs that are unlikely to really help their cases (Harrison, McGinest, Bruschi)
One hundredth post
Suh is an interesting one for me. I thought he was excellent his first 3 years and then there was a little lull. This year, he once again is one of the top DT[s in the league. I’m on the fence with him, but would like to see at least 2 more years at well above average play.
Suh will be an increasing case for voters to consider one day (SB or not)
interesting case
The Packers came back in the 3rd Qrt against TB and had their chances to take the lead and win the game but the sequence of events before the half and the first three minutes of the third quarter put the Pack into a huge hole …
1) GB is down 14-10 with less than 40 seconds left in the half. Rather than driving for a FG, Rogers throws an interception, where the defender got away with a hold on Scantling.
2) Brady throws an interception that was dropped by GB DB Redmond.
3) Incredibly, with only 6 seconds left in the half, GB allows a TD pass, deep to Miller with NO safety help near the endzone. King the cornerback was on an island. Instead of a 14-10 score, its 21-10 …
4) Barely over two minutes into the third quarter, Jones for GB fumbles for the second time, TB recovers and Brady throws his third TD to put TB up 28-10. Jones hardly plays the rest of the game for GB …
Earlier today, LeRoy Butler posted on social media that he was not elected in the class of 2021, if Hall is starting to make calls to all the finalists we may start to see news filter out from those candidates, especially ones not getting in. So far no updates from PFHOF regarding official announcements which they still plan on holding to make during NFL Honors Show in evening of Sat Feb 6th.
That will be good news for John Lynch’s chances this year.
yea felt since last election that this would shape up to be Lynch’s year.
Not seeing any more leaks on social media, maybe in coming hours and days we will, or maybe not
We have our next addition to the ballot for class of 2026 as Jason Witten is officially retiring. Here is the complete list so far (including Brees as likely):
2026: Drew Brees*, Philip Rivers, Frank Gore, Jason Witten, Greg Olson, Maurkice Pouncy,
I’m not sure Gore and Pouncey have made any official announcement, but are leaning towards retirement like Brees.
2026 is shaping up to be a strong year, especially if we eventually add Larry Fitzgerald and Adrian Peterson.
Just listen to Peter King’s podcast from last week. He had Jarrett Bell (WFT rep on board of selectors) on to discuss selection process. A good listen. But the one piece of potential news is that Bell repeatedly said that they didn’t know if Clay Matthews made the Hall. They also both said his presentation was “compelling.” While it is easy to read too much into such statements, but taken literally, this would mean that Matthews made the final 10. Otherwise, Bell would certainly know Matthews didn’t make the hall because he knows who the top 10 were. I may be being too literal, but it is something to consider given we are short on news until next Saturday.
Pouncey reportedly told his teammates he was retiring. LarryF has been non-committal while AP expressed interest in still playing but as a 35old FA RB he will have to look for a team searching for a backup (Gore has same challenge). But AP has huge financial reason to keep playing as recently has been ordered by court to play $8.3 million to a loan company.
He probably won’t retire but Ben Roethlisberger probably should. He looked like a shell of himself down the stretch. Secretly i bet the Steelers hope he does (even though there would still be a significant amount of dead cap space.) I bet they would love to go after a Matt Stafford if they could. I don’t believe Mason Rudolph is the answer and they draft too late to get one of the top flight QB draft picks.
Steelers would take a HUGE cap hit (they already don’t have cap space to be active in FA market or trade for major starting QB) so I doubt they will force him out. They likely try to draft QB in 1st or 2nd round and look to move on from BenR in 2022 off season.
“The easiest thing for the Steelers would be Roethlisberger retiring. With his salary off the books, $19 million of 2021 cap space would be gained, although there would be $22.25 million in dead money — a cap charge for a player no longer on the roster — because of the bonus proration. The $22.25 million would be the largest amount of dead money related to an individual player for one league year in NFL history. ”
“Once there are 51 players counting and the carry over is taken into account, Pittsburgh’s 2021 cap commitments should be around $208 million. At the $175 million floor, the Steelers are projected to be approximately $33 million over the cap.”
I think Ben and Drew Brees will force their teams to cut them, which they may not do.
Peterson and Gore I think will be back, maybe Fitzgerald as well.
I think Dallas, Atlanta, Indy and NE will try for Stafford. Watson is stuck in Houston.
Hoping a team will give Minshew a starting chance since Jax will take Lawrence …
Why would BenR force Steelers to cut him? Cut or retire would create huge cap issues for Steelers in 2021, I really don’t see them moving on to him until 2022.
Every indication is that Brees will retire, if designated for post June 1st release, his cap hit is manageable.
Hard to say for AP and Gore, are teams looking to pay min vet salary ($1 million +) for 35old+ backup RBs when most teams don’t have much cap space (does not seem wise cap space management to invest there).
Dallas will be all in on Dak, Indy or NE likey spots for Stafford, but with cap space issues around the league there will be interesting game of musical chairs for vet QBs, likelt fewer spots than options, especially with 4-5 teams looking to fill by drafting Qbs in first round.
Things could change by March but it looks like Goff and Stafford will switch teams. No excuses for Stafford now but I think if he doesnt win, he could be gone after two years.
Detroit has to swallow Goffs salary but with first round picks, could get another QB in the draft next year, so Goff needs a good 2022 as well.
A SB win with the Rams and more wins could help Stafford’s HOF case …
The Rams are not going to give up on Stafford having spent two firsts and a 3rd to acquire him. I think he thrives with McVay and a team with a really good defense.
The NFC looks weaker at the QB position than the AFC with Brees all but gone and Brady at 43. WFT also made a strong offer on Stafford, but the Lions got extra picks for absorbing a bad contract.
Goff has two more years of guaranteed money and the Lions should use those picks to make a move on their QBOTF in either 2022 or 23.
Goff and Wentz looked so promising 2 years ago. How quickly it all changed.
Hopefully in LA, Stafford wont be made of glass like Bradford was …
They need to get a speedster like Hardman of KC to take the top off defenses …
Maybe Campbell in Detroit will build a running game for Goff and the defense. Hoping AP returns …
I agree with brian 100% if he is made of glass like bradford is then his hof credentials take a hit
Unless Stafford wins SB(s) in LA or ends up in top 5 career passing (possible only if he plays another 7-8 seasons), he’s not getting into the PFHOF.
Strikes me that Rams are all in on Stafford and SB within next 2 years-if that happens they win this trade, of not it will be seen a bust regardless of how well or how long Stafford plays.
Lions are in for the rebuild, all the draft picks are great BUT they have to hit gold with them-and that is far from certain. If you look at history of trades with multiple top picks going to a team, the success rate is not close to perfect in turning those into star players, and it’s not just the past of drafting in Detroit but across league history and how rare it is that such drafts hit the goldmine. Just cause it worked for Jerry and Jimmy in 1989 with Walker trade to MINN does not mean will happen again, Jimmy was able to turn those picks into key players for SB teams, but that is not easy to do, history shows it fails more than succeeds.
I have copied the predictions for the five of us who entered this years contest. Will announce results Saturday night after Hall official press release on Class of 2021. Looks like they have managed with no leaks so far, may come down to when they call all the finalists with results (could be any day this week or even on Saturday during day????). So we may get leaks, and rumors this week or not. Would guess we might get some confirmations by late Saturday afternoon or early evening but who knows????
Rick Gosselin did an article about Calvin Johnson today on talkoffamenetwork.
Could he be foreshadowing Johnson’s first ballot induction ?
Though I wouldnt agree with it, many writers love this guy and it wouldnt surprise me. I think it would be the shortest career, first ballot induction since Dick Butkus …
The reason I went with Johnson in my prediction is that I think the selectors might have one eye on the WR backlog, not just now with Johnson, Wayne, Holt and Ward but also in the near future with A.Johnson, S.Smith and A.Boldin. Had it not been Johnson, I would’ve gone for John Lynch, or Boselli who I will pencil in for my 2022 Class, should they not get elected this time.
As for the Stafford trade I like it for both teams. It’s the first domino to fall in what is shaping up to be an exciting few weeks for the QB market.
The voters only know the final 10 (not a surprise if CalvinJ was in that group plus RickG had Covid and didn’t participate in selection virtual meeting so I doubt he has any special insight
Thanks Paul …
I wasnt aware of that. Its amazing more stuff hasnt leaked …
Hearing word that Holt, Wayne, Barber, Mills and Allen didnt make top ten …
Did you forget about leroy butler brian that means were down to the following 9 boselli faneca johnson lynch manning matthews Seymour thomas Woodson
Brian: that sounds like a very reasonable cut down from 15 to 10 (thought I think Holt and Barber are being seriously under appreciated)
This list was according to John Turney. Maybe he was wrong on one of them ?
Peyton Manning in
What the hell is Baker doing ?
Why more shenanigans ? If its secret, keep it secret but the word is getting out. We may know everyone else before saturday …
do you run the hall of fame brian of course not brian so let the man do his job
They could’ve announced Manning as part of this Class the day he retired. It’s hardly a major revelation and nobody is going to bad an eyelid if it’s announced now.
Butler could’ve reached the Top 10 if Brian’s list of 15-10 cuts is accurate, and it does look very plausible. If we say Woodson is also all but certain that leaves 7 names fighting for 3 places.
Faneca, Boselli, C.Johnson, Seymour, Thomas, Matthews and Lynch. Those who do get left out will be in a great position for next year, though this is the last chance for Matthews Jr as a modern era candidate. I’m still sticking with Faneca, Johnson and Seymour from my original prediction, with Boselli, Thomas and Lynch for 2022.
No word has gotten out, John Turney admitted he was speculating (but his guesses about five eliminated from 15-10 are likely right as much as they are obvious)
The Hall and Baker love the promotion and marketing aspect of this announcement (reminder the live TV studio surprise announcements of Cowher and Johnson last January), and without the finalists in Tampa Bay this year-hence no hotel room “knock on the door”, it is no shock that that Baker is trying to milk all the suspense and surprise angle out this by attempting to hold everything until NFL Honors Show on Saturday night. Let’s see if they can continue to hold the line until then.
And I agree with Mannning and Woodson as locks, the last three slots will come down to Faneca, Boselli, C.Johnson, Seymour, Thomas, Matthews and Lynch.
Of those seven I would rank their chances for final three as 1. Faneca. 2.Lynch. 3 Johnson, Seymour, Thomas or Boselli. And yes I still think CJohnson is more of a 50/50 toss up rather then assured as voters don’t like short career 1st ballots and I think he won’t get in this year.
PFT is reporting that the Hall recently filmed at a party in Payton Manning’s honor where Baker told Manning he was elected to Class of 2021. To no surprise without the finalists (and hence those elected) appearing in person in Tampa for the SB events including NFL Honors event Saturday evening (all taped content with no audience or guests), the Hall will be looking to film more of these “reveals” in advance of airing on that show-these “filmings” could be source of more leaks about who is elected in the coming days.
Drew Pearson has indicated that he was told to expect the call from the Hall on Saturday morning. So if that is case with the remaining finalists, it is possible leaks start to come out during day on Saturday as finalists get call and word spreads among family and friends, and ends up on social media
So yea on a typical year with the voters meeting on Saturday, leaks would start to emerge on social media in late afternoon or early evening after meeting ended and Baker notified the finalists – a few hours before official announcement that evening on NFL Honors Show. We could see these leaks as soon as Saturday morning or early afternoon this weekend, as committee already voted on Jan 19th and looks like Baker making those calls Saturday morning.
Just about 24 hrs to go….
Performing on saturday …
Baker And His Calls For The Hall !
calling this right now senior player nominee for 2022 will be defensive the question is which defensive position will they go lb saftey cb dt de who would you pick
I would pick LB Chuck Howley, but my prediction is LB Randy Gradishar.
Brian also sounds like Hall has already taped Baker trips in last few weeks to “surprise” some candidates and some may get knock on door in Tampa. We should expect a mix of announcement including in reveal segment in NFL Honors Show this evening
Pretty sure Gradishar has best chance to be senior candidate for class of 2022 but will have to wait until August ! Highly likely the they go defense and he seems to have support, name has come up by voters in past and was finalist for centennial class. I am not sure which defensive player would be next, although apparently Ken Riley was close in 2021 selection but with senior committee voters and advisors changing each year it’s hard to say whether he will continue with momentum
Flores has been elected
Pearson in
Congratulations to Flores and Pearson !
I remember when I first discovered talkoffamenetwork on the internet.
It was a State Your Case on Flores and there must have been five hundred comments from impassioned pro football fans, either for him or against. I miss that sense of debate and discussion from the site but its still strong on this one …
As do I brian
Manning Woodson Faneca Lynch are in …. still waiting on last modern …. Flores Nunn Pearson also in
Congratulations to Faneca ! Possibly the fifth Steeler elected in two years …
Comes down to Boselli Seymour Matthews Jr or Thomas (others already told not elected)
Congratulations to Peyton Manning, Woodson and Lynch …
Could Lynch making the Hall forshadow a Bucs victory tomorrow ?
Congratulations to Nunn, the fifth Steeler elected in two years …
Or Megatron
Looks like the fifth is Calvin johnson
Calvin Johnson is a HOFer
So it’s manning woodson Johnson Faneca Lynch as moderns, three 1st ballot
Though I dont agree, it doesnt surprise me.
The Media loves Megatron …
Congratulations to Johnson … the shortest career first ballot HOF elect, since Dick Butkus
Early look at 2022 moderns: Ware Boselli Butler Seymour Wayne?
Will post official results of our contest after show ends
P.Manning
C.Woodson
A.Faneca
C.Johnson
J.Lynch
Pearson
T.Flores
B.Nunn
Of the five modern era selections, there are three 1st ballot guys. We have a QB, WR and G on offense and two DBs on the defense.
I got 4/5 on the modern era and 7/8 in total. I changed my pick from Lynch to C.Johnson at the last minute, but I missed out on Seymour who is looking good for next year with Boselli and Butler, now that another two DBs and Faneca have been cleared out of the way.
No Matthews Jr means he drops into the Seniors Pool and we’ll have six new finalists next year. I think it’ll be defensive heavy Class in 2022 and Boselli is looking like the strongest offensive candidate.
Haha … I think four of us tied for first on predictions
Surprised another safety was elected with Butler coming up …
Alot of them the last five elections.
One of the reasons I went with C.Johnson (apart from his obvious greatness) is the WR logjam still looks brutal even with him being elected today. In the end with Seymour over Lynch, but Lynch was my 6th guy.
Butler and Ronde Barber have a head start among the DBs with Butler looking like he’s the next guy up. Seymour and Boselli are really knocking hard on the door and Ware is probably the only 1st ballot worthy candidate.
Ware, Seymour, Butler and Boselli for 2022. The 5th spot could go in any direction. I expect to see Patrick Willis joining Z.Thomas among the finalists at LB next year. I don’t think Mills has got a realistic shot in his last year.
Yea Brian, Robert, Bill and Boknows all had 4/5, I screwed up with 3/5 as should have went with Lynch over Thomas as he was in my first prediction way back in Feb 2020
Early 2022 Prediction …
Ware
Boselli
Seymour
Thomas
Allen
Gradishar
Parker
Kraft
2022 going to be tough after Ware Boselli as could be mix of Butler Seymour Thomas Wayne?
Doesnt matter Paul, you still predicted Lynch right from last Feb …
Who the hell would have thought Brady, Lynch and the Bucs for this year in Tampa ?
And three first ballot selections, which might be getting out of hand but many people agreed with. I think Allen gets in next year with Seymour on the defensive line …
Any official word on the final 10?
Looks like Robert is still The Greatest …
Will have to wait in official news release for final 10
Where ya at TonyP ?
Disappointed Thomas didnt go in with Johnson, who I believe wanted to draft Zach before the 5th round but knew other teams wouldnt. I couldnt believe in 1996 that Thomas would beat out Jack Del Rio for the MLB spot …
Nineteen years after the Tuck Rule, Tom Brady is in a Super Bowl and Charles Woodson is a HOFer.
Manning and Woodson together as 1st ballot HOFers, after Manning finished 2nd to Woodson for the 1997 Heisman.
John Lynch is a HOFer with the Bucs in a Super Bowl hosted in Tampa.
Justin, the next five were Matthews, Boselli, Thomas, Seymour and Butler according to John Turney …
Brian: Thanks. Is this official? I haven’t seen it on pro football journal, and talk of fame is surprisingly muted in its coverage this year. Almost as if the Hall is applying pressure not to report the final 10. Very frustrating for those of us who keep track of this stuff.
Once again reading the social media comments to the announcement and once again if we include everyone who was “robbed” we’d have a Class of about 15. I did reply to one remark asking which one of Manning, Woodson, Lynch, Faneca and Johnson would you leave out ….. still waiting on a reply.
I can confirm the last 5 eliminated according to clark judge
I liked the class a lot and I am really happy Calvin Johnson got in. Our post is here: https://www.zoneblitz.com/2021/02/07/first-ballot-enshrinees-dominate-hall-of-fames-2021-class/ — this post has a link to another I wrote five years ago that compared Megatron’s stats and honors to those of Cris Carter, Andre Reed and Tim Brown. He stacked up quite well despite a much shorter career. Cheers.