The NFL 2024 Pro Football Hall of Fame Weekend from Canton, Ohio is now in the books.
The 7 new enshrinees are:
Patrick Willis, San Francisco 49ers linebacker. He powered a nasty defense that took the 49ers to three straight NFC Title Games from 2011 to 2013 including one Super Bowl appearance in 2012.
Dwight Freeney, Indianapolis Colts linebacker. He along with Bob Sanders led the defense on the 2006 Colts team that won the Super Bowl. He now joins teammates Peyton Manning and Marvin Harrison in the Hall of Fame.
Andre Johnson, Houston Texans wide receiver. He is the first Texans player in the Hall of Fame. He joined the team one year after they became an expansion team and led them to their very first playoff appearance in franchise history.
Devin Hester, Chicago Bears kick and punt returner. He is the greatest return man in the history of the game. He returned the opening kickoff for a touchdown in the 2006 Super Bowl. He struck fear in the hearts of opposing special teams coaches. The two things that affect football games are turnovers and field position. Hester changed the game.
Julius Peppers, Carolina Panthers linebacker. He was ferocious. He helmed a defense that led the Panthers to their first Super Bowl appearance in franchise history. He played for 17 seasons.
Randy Gradishar, Denver Broncos linebacker, senior nominee. He highlighted the Orange Crush defense along with Tom Jackson and Lyle Alzado that got the Denver Broncos in 1977 to the first Super Bowl appearance in franchise history.
Steve McMichael, Chicago Bears nose tackle, senior nominee. He was a key cog along with Richard Dent, Mike Singletary and Dan Hampton on the greatest defense of all time, the 1985 Chicago Bears. He had to appear by video due to his heartbreaking battle with ALS. His wife read a statement he prepared before he lost his ability to speak.
Here is complete coverage of all 7 new enshrinees
https://www.nfl.com/news/hall-of-fame-enshrinement-2024-class-takes-its-place-in-canton
In the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game, the Chicago Bears defeated the Houston Texans 21-17. The game was called late in the third quarter due to torrential rain and lightning.
The new kickoff rules are odd, but should not prevent great returns. Special teams are still a special breed.
One month until kickoff, 6 months until the Super Bowl.
eric