Defense was the theme of the night in Canton, Ohio, the home of the NFL Hall of Fame, but all aspects of the game were covered on this emotional night. 8 new members made their speeches thanking their families, friends, and teammates as some of the best players of the early 2000s made it to the ultimate honor: the NFL Hall of Fame.
Champ Bailey and Ty Law, 2 of the best cornerbacks to play the game, stepped up to the podium to make their speeches. Law was instrumental in the Patriots first super bowl run and in helping build the best dynasty in football, as the team is still dominating today. “Champ”, who got this nickname from his mother, truly lived up to his name and is most famous for shutting down receivers in his time with the Denver Broncos.
2 members of the Kansas City Chiefs were present Saturday night, safety Johnny Robinson, and the most famous of all, Tony Gonzalez. The 6’5″ Gonzalez, perhaps the best tight end in football history, was the first tight end ever to get elected in his first year of eligibility. He was a 14 time Pro Bowler which is a testament to how good he was for so long. Although he spoke last, nobody wanted to leave before hearing the famous tight end give his speech.
Kevin Mawae and Ed Reed played very different positions but were some of the most respected and best players on their teams. The longtime Baltimore Ravens safety, Reed was known for his interceptions and hard hits. Along with Ray Lewis and Terrel Suggs, they made up the core of the Raven’s relentless defense of the early 2000s. Mawae was not only a great center, but was also one of the best blockers, helping shape some great seasons for running backs, most notably Curtis Martin.
Gil Brandt and Pat Bowlen were also awarded, but more for their role in shaping football than for playing the game. Brandt is 86 years old and has been involved in football since 1955. He is most remembered for his 28 years with the Dallas Cowboys but continues working to this day in different radio and TV roles.
Longtime Broncos owner Pat Bowlen, who died in June of Alzheimer disease, was represented by his children, and in an emotional tribute, they all hugged and kissed his bust as it was unveiled. He is the only owner in NFL history whose team won 300 games in his first 30 years.
While every Hall of Fame ceremony is emotional, these 8 men all contributed greatly to the sport both on and off the field, and there is no doubt that every single one deserved the greatest individual honor in the NFL.
