The Most Controversial NFL Hall Of Fame Inductees
Not saying these players did not DESERVE to be in the NFL Hall of Fame. But these players some can argue don't deserve to be in it. These are the most controversial NFL Hall Of Fame Inductees.
25. Jerry Kramer (Guard) Packers
He was a long-time snub from the hall of fame. But then he got in. Some say it was more about correcting a legacy omission than rewarding his play.
24. Kenny Easley (Safety) Seahawks
Easley was a dominant force when healthy. He won DPOY of 1984. His career however ended early due to kidney issues so he only got to play 7 seasons. Many argue 7 seasons isn't enough to warrant a hall of fame status.
23. Donnie Shell (Safety) Steelers
Another Steelers player who got in maybe from team success instead of his play. he was respected but never a premier safety in the NFL.
22. Dick LeBeau (DB) Lions
He played 14 seasons but never made an All-Pro. His hall of fame legacy was built more on his coaching than playing.
21. Drew Pearson (WR) Cowboys
Pearson waited decades to get in. His numbers were simply good but not great. But "The Catch" made his legendary status.
20. Claude Humphrey - DE Atlanta Falcons
Another senior committee choice here. He was a solid player but very few saw him as elite during his playing days.
19. Curley Culp (NT) Chiefs/Oilers
He was a powerful nose tackle. But many felt his career lacked dominance. Some say he was let in on oversight more than merit.
18. Alex Karras (DT) Lions
He missed a whole season for gambling. And had a inconsistent career. his gambling makes his case for the Hall of Fame controversial.
17. Fred Biletnikoff (WR) Raiders
He was known for his glue like hands. But he never led the league in catches or yards. Many think his reputation outpaced is production.
16. Tom Fears (WR) Rams
He did have some early success. But his career faded quickly. Many believe he had made the Hall because of a complete standout seasons.
15. Jan Stenerud (Kicker) Chiefs
He was the first kicker inducted to the Hall. But he had a 66.8 career FG percentage which is not impressive by today's standards.
14. Art Monk (WR) Redskins
Monk had some big cumulative numbers. But, never was he the best WR in a given year. His HOF case is more about longevity than explosiveness.
13. Andre Tippett (LB) Patriots
He had a short peak of greatness. But his resume doesn't have the consistency or dominance.
12. Dave Wilcox (LB) 49ers
He was a durable presence but his name doesn't come up as one of the great LBs of his time. He flew under the radar most of his career.
11. John Riggins (RB) Redskins
He became a legend with a iconic Super Bowl run. But he averaged just 3.9 YPC and was inconsistent.
10. Rickey Jackson (LB) Saints
He was a durable presence but his name doesn't come up as one of the great LBs of his time. He benefited from a strong Saints defense.
9. Ron Yary (OT) Vikings
He was a solid tackle but many argue he his Hall nod had more to do with the Vikings success than his own.
8. Floyd Little (RB) Broncos
He was productive on bad teams. But his stats weren't great either. His selection raised eyebrows.
7. Charlie Sanders (TE) Lions
He was a fan favorite in Detroit. But he never led the league in receiving stats and made a few All-Pro teams.
6. Bob Griese (QB) Dolphins
Griese played on some stacked teams. And he was more of a game manager than game changer.
5. Paul Hornung (RB/K) Packers
He won a Heisman and NFL MVP. But he was suspended for one year for gambling making it controversial.
4. Ray Guy (Punter) Raiders
He was the first pure punter inducted to the Hall Of Fame. Many question if a punter should be in the Hall of Fame.
3. Lynn Swann (WR) Steelers
Clutch in the playoffs there was no doubt about that. But he had just one 1,000 yard season. His post-season heroics overmatched his regular season stats.
2. Joe Namath (QB) Jets
Broadway Joe is an icon of course. But his fame over shadowed his numbers. 173 TDs to 220 INTs and just a 65.5 passer rating.
1. OJ Simpson (RB) Bills
His on field production of course makes him belonging. But we all know his off field stuff has made him infamous.