Hall of Fame: 2024 class is eclectic
Devin Hester first pure returner to be inducted
On a rainy Saturday (Aug. 3) in Canton, Ohio, a process that began more than a year ago culminated with the official induction of seven new members to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, an honor bestowed on only 378 people out of almost 30,000 who took part in this great sport since 1920.
The new Hall of Fame inductees, Class of 2024:
—DWIGHT FREENEY, defensive end/outside linebacker
— DEVIN HESTER, Kick returner/punt returner/wide receiver.
— ANDRE JOHNSON, wide receiver
— JULIUS PEPPERS, defensive end/ linebacker.
— PATRICK WILLIS, Linebacker.
— RANDY GRADISHAR, senior linebacker.
— STEVE McMICHAEL, defensive tackle.
As a selector in this process for more than 30 years, I can verify that cutting the list of more than 100 down to the Class of 2024 was as difficult as any that went before.
After a rain delay, Saturday’s ceremony included unforgettable, heartfelt moments.
Perhaps the most memorable moment was the unveiling of McMichael’s bust, which was televised from his home in Homer Glenn, Ill., where the former Chicago Bears great is bedridden as he battles ALS. His wife, Misty, unveiled “Mongo’s” bust as he watched from bed while wearing his Hall of Football yellow coat.
Among others also with Steve and Misty for the unveiling were several former teammates — Richard Dent, Mike Singletary and Jimbo Covert, who traveled there after taking part in Friday’s activities in Canton.
This was an eclectic HOF class in that it included the first returner to be inducted (Hester), a first-ballot Edge player (Peppers) who also starred at basketball and gave a special call-out to fellow North Carolina alum Michael Jordan, and Gradishar, who was eligible 35 years before getting the call to the Hall.
We all have our favorites, and in this class, one of mine is Gradishar, the senior linebacker who waited so long and was teased three times before as a semifinalist who failed to take that last step.
When I was covering the Raiders, Gradishar first caught my attention as a wildly prolific tackler for the Denver Broncos' famous Orange Crush defense. His tackle stats were so ridiculous, often more than 20 a game, that many people dismissed them as a PR stunt. After Gradishar’s name kept coming up, a few selectors got together remotely to watch a few games on video to get a feel for this tackling machine.
Damned if those huge tackle stats looked legitimate. The result was that Gradishar was finally inducted. So, a belated welcome to the Hall of Fame, Randy.
The selection of Willis reflected rare insight and perspective by a selection committee that is difficult to impress, which is as it should be. Willis played inside linebacker for only eight years with the San Francisco 49ers but looked like a Hall of Famer from his first season when he was named Rookie Defensive Player of the Year and was the only rookie in the Pro Bowl.
Willis may have talked his way out of the 2023 Class himself last year when he advocated for diminutive middle linebacker Zach Thomas (Miami, Dallas, KC). Thomas made it last year, but Willis’ classy move may have solidified his induction this year.
Many coaches, scouts and personnel people believe Willis may be the best overall linebacker to play the game. Ever. His combination of size, speed, strength, instinct and tenacity was startling. A recurring foot injury forced him into early retirement.
The newly elected Hall of Famers were chosen during a Zoom meeting in January from a list of 19 Finalists that was determined earlier by the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Selection Committee. However, the process began last July (2023) when the 50-person Selection Committee received a preliminary list of more than 100 prospects. In fact, we just received the confidential preliminary list for 2025.
Freeney, Gradishar, Hester, Johnson, Peppers, and Willis learned of their election when another Hall of Famer knocked on their door. McMichael, who is battling ALS, and his wife, Misty, received the news in a phone call from his former Bears teammate, Richard Dent.
The full committee meeting began with five-minute presentations on three Seniors and the Coach, followed by the yes/no vote. In a rare occurrence, two finalists, one senior player and a coach, did not muster the required 80 percent "yes" votes, separate from all other voting. The senior player was former wide receiver Art Powell, and the coach was Buddy Parker.
After that, the discussions began with 15 modern-era prospects. That list included (alphabetically) defensive back Eric Allen, offensive tackle Willie Anderson, guard Jahri Evans, tight end Antonio Gates, safety Rodney Harrison, wide receiver Tory Holt, running back Fred Taylor, wide receiver Reggie Wayne and safety Darren Woodson. Of special note was Gates, a very popular first-ballot nominee after making an unusual impression by starring in the NFL after playing only basketball in college.
Along with the eventual inductees, Allen, Anderson, Gates, Holt and Woodson survived the cut to 10.
The finalists who didn't make it are expected to be high on the list for 2025. But that may not be an advantage because among the new candidates eligible for the first time are quarterback Eli Manning, linebacker Luke Kuechly, kicker Adam Vinatieri, offensive tackle Joe Staley, running back Marshawn Lynch, defensive back Earl Thomas and versatile offensive weapon Darren Sproles.
Meantime, let's take a look at the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Class of 2024
DWIGHT FREENEY
Times as Finalist: 2 | Year of Eligibility: 2
Position: Defensive End/Outside Linebacker
Ht: 6-1, Wt: 268
NFL Career: 2002–2012 Indianapolis Colts, 2013–14 San Diego Chargers,
2015 Arizona Cardinals, 2016 Atlanta Falcons, 2017 Seattle Seahawks, 2017 Detroit Lions
Seasons: 16, Games: 218
College: Syracuse
Drafted: First round (11th Overall), 2002
Born: Feb. 19, 1980, in Hartford, Conn.
Drafted in first round (11th overall) of 2002 NFL Draft after leading the nation in sacks (17.5) his senior season at Syracuse … Named Co-Big East Defensive Player of the Year while earning All-American recognition … Ran a 4.48-second 40-yard dash in pre-draft workouts … Selected to 2002 NFL All-Rookie Team after recording 13 sacks and 20 tackles for loss … Seven Pro Bowl selections … AP first-team All-Pro in 2004, 2005 and 2009; second-team All-Pro in 2003 … Named All-AFC by PFWA 2003-05 and 2009-2010 … Secured NFL Sack Title with 16 in 2004 … Member of the Colts’ Super Bowl XLI championship team and played in two additional Super Bowls (XLIV, LI) … Played in 218 regular-season games over 16 seasons in NFL … Career stat totals: 125.5 sacks, 148 quarterback hits and 128 tackles for loss … Credited with 47 forced fumbles (tied for third on the NFL’s all-time list) and forced three fumbles in a game on two occasions.
As a rookie, with Freeney appearing in all 16 games, eight as a starter, the Colts’ defense from 29th overall in the NFL in 2001 to eighth in 2002. Freeney led the resurgent defensive line with a rookie-record 13 sacks to go with 20 tackles for loss on his way to NFL All-Rookie Team honors and a second-place finish in voting for the AP’s Defensive Rookie of the Year award.
Freeney followed with three more seasons of double-digit sack totals, including a league-best 16 in 2004. That year, he also was named first-team All-Pro for the first of three times and earned his second of seven Pro Bowl invitations.
A foot injury limited Freeney to nine games and 3.5 sacks in 2007, but he bounced back in 2008 with 10.5 sacks, and he added 23.5 sacks over the following two seasons.
For his career, Freeney totaled 125.5 sacks, 148 quarterback hits and 128 tackles for loss. He was credited with 47 forced fumbles, a figure that is tied for third on the NFL’s all-time list, and twice forced three fumbles in a game.
Freeney played 218 regular-season games over 16 NFL seasons, the first 11 with the Colts. He appeared in 22 postseason contests, including three AFC Championship Games and two NFC Championship Games. He won a Super Bowl ring with the Colts and played in two other Super Bowls. In the postseason, he totaled 11 sacks and 12 tackles for loss.
Freeney attended Syracuse University. As a senior, he led the nation with 17.5 sacks and earned All-America accolades.
League Stats
• [Tied for 2nd] Most Consecutive Games with a Sack – 9 (Dec. 18, 2008–Nov. 8, 2009)
• [3rd] Most Sacks, Rookie Season - 13 (2002)
Postseason Records
• [Tied for 5th] Most Sacks - 11
Colts’ records held by Freeney
(Records through the 2012 season, Freeney’s final season with Indianapolis)
• [1st] Most Sacks, Career – 107.5 (2002–2012)
• [1st] Most Sacks, Season – 16 (2004)
• [1st] Most Sacks Rookie Season – 13 (2002)
• [1st] Most Game with a Sack, Career – 81 (2002–2012)
• [1st] Most Multi-Sack Games, Career – 25 (2002–2012)
• [Tied for 1st] Most Multi-Sack Games, Season – 5 (2004)
• [Tied for 1st] Most Game with a Sack, Season – 11 (2009)
• [2nd] Most Sacks, Season – 13.5 (2009)
• [2nd] Most Game with a Sack, Season – 10 (2002)
• [3rd] Most Sacks, Season – 13 (2002)
• [3rd] Most Game with a Sack, Season – 9 (2004, 2005)
Postseason Records
• [1st] Most Sacks, Career – 9 (2002-2012)
• [Tied for 1st] Most Sacks, Game – 2 (vs. Kansas City Chiefs, Jan. 6, 2007; at San Diego Chargers, Jan. 3, 2009)
• [3rd] Most Games Played, Career – 17 (2002–2012)
Cardinals’ records held by Freeney
(Records through the 2015 season, Freeney’s final season with Arizona)
• [Tied for 3rd] Most Sacks, Game – 3 (vs. Green Bay Packers, Dec. 27, 2015)
Team Statistical Championships
Sack Titles: 2002, 2003, 2004, 2009, 2015
Award and Honors
• 2002 NFL All-Rookie Team (PFW/PFWA)
• 2005 AFC Defensive Player of the Year (Kansas City Committee of 101 Awards)
• 2000s All-Decade Team
RANDY GRADISHAR
Times as Finalist: 4 | Year of eligibility: 35
Position: Linebacker
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 233
NFL career: 19741983 Denver Broncos
Seasons: 10 | Games: 145
College: Ohio State
Drafted: First round (14th overall), 1974
Born: March 3, 1952, in Warren, Ohio
Unanimous All-America selection at Ohio State in 1973 … Broncos’ first-round pick, 1974 (14th overall) … Led Denver in total tackles nine consecutive seasons, 1975-1983 … Played in 145 regular-season games during 10 NFL seasons … Member of famed “Orange Crush” defensive unit of 1970s and 1980s … Named 1978 AP NFL Defensive MVP/Player of the Year … Played in Super Bowl XII, recording eight tackles … First-team All-Pro twice (1977-78), second-team three times (1979, 1981, 1983) … Played in seven Pro Bowls (1975, 1977-79, 1981-83) … Unofficial 2,049 career tackles are most in Broncos history and were most in league history at the time of his retirement … One of 10 linebackers in league history — all Hall of Famers — with at least seven Pro Bowls, 20 interceptions and 10 fumble recoveries … Inducted into College Football Hall of Fame in 1998 … Member of Denver Broncos Ring of Fame.
The heart and soul of the Denver Broncos’ famed “Orange Crush” defensive unit of the 1970s and 1980s, Randy Gradishar showed an uncanny knack for knowing where the ball would be before the opposing offense ran the play.
Gradishar’s impact was felt from the moment the Broncos selected him with the 14th overall pick in the 1974 NFL Draft. Prior to choosing Gradishar, the club had posted only one winning season and had never made the playoffs. With their new defensive leader, they totaled seven winning seasons and four playoff appearances in his 10-year career.
In his second season, Gradishar led Denver in total tackles, beginning a streak of nine consecutive seasons accomplishing that feat. His dominance helped the Broncos to their first postseason berth in 1977, including an appearance in Super Bowl XII against the Dallas Cowboys. Gradishar recorded eight tackles in the both the AFC title game and Super Bowl that season.
A career year followed in 1978, earning Gradishar countless accolades that included AP NFL Defensive MVP/Player of the Year, first-team All-Pro status, All-AFC and selection to the Pro Bowl. For his career, Gradishar is one of only 10 linebackers with at least seven Pro Bowls, 20 interceptions and 10 fumble recoveries. The other nine (Chuck Bednarik, Dick Butkus, Jack Ham, Ted Hendricks, Jack Lambert, Willie Lanier, Ray Lewis, Joe Schmidt and Brian Urlacher) are members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
His unofficial 2,049 career tackles (tackles became an official stat in 2001) are still the most in Broncos history and would place him second all-time behind Hall of Famer Ray Lewis for most in the NFL.
Broncos’ records held by Gradishar at the time of his retirement following the 1983 season
• [1st] Most Interception Return Yardage, Game – 93 (at Cleveland, Oct. 5, 1980)
• [1st] Longest Interception Return – 93 (at Cleveland, Oct. 5, 1980)
• [1st] Longest Scoring Interception Return – 93 (at Cleveland, Oct. 5, 1980)
Team Statistical Championships Interception Leader: 1975
Total Tackles Leader: 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983
Awards and Honors
• 1978 NFL Defensive MVP/Player of the Year (AP, NEA, PW)
• 1978 AFC Defensive Player of the Year (UPI)
• Denver Broncos Ring of Fame
• Broncos Top 100 Team
• Broncos 50th Anniversary Team
DEVIN HESTER
Times as Finalist: 3 | Year of Eligibility: 3
Position: Punt Returner/Kick Returner/Wide Receiver
Ht: 5-11, Wt: 190
NFL Career: 2006-2013 Chicago Bears, 2014–15 Atlanta Falcons,
2016 Baltimore Ravens, 2016 Seattle Seahawks
Seasons: 11, Games: 156
College: Miami (Florida)
Drafted: Second round (57th Overall), 2006
Born: Nov. 4, 1982, in Riviera Beach, Fla.
Multi-dimensional player who joined Bears after collegiate career as offensive, defensive and special teams threat … Became immediate standout as return specialist, earning spot on 2006 NFL All-Rookie Team … In debut season, returned 47 punts for 600 yards (both NFL highs) and three TDs, along with 20 kickoffs for 528 yards and two touchdowns … Also returned a missed field goal that season for a 108-yard touchdown – one of only four such “kick-six” scores of that distance in an NFL game. … Opened Super Bowl XLI with 92-yard kickoff return for a touchdown – the only time in Super Bowl history that has occurred … In second NFL season, returned four punts and two kickoffs for scores, establishing an NFL record for six combined kick returns for TDs … First-team All-Pro three times (2006-07, 2010) … Member of the NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 2010s … One of two return specialists on the NFL 100 All-Time Team.
When the Chicago Bears selected Devin Hester with a second-round pick in the 2006 NFL Draft (57th choice overall), the team knew it was adding a multi-dimensional player with elite skills in the return game. Few, however, could have predicted how profoundly he would influence the franchise, set NFL records still standing and reinforce the importance of special teams.
Hester played in 11 NFL seasons (2006-2016) – eight in Chicago, two in Atlanta and a final season split between Baltimore and Seattle. He burst onto the scene as a rookie, helping ignite a Bears team that finished with a 13-3 regular-season record and eventually reach Super Bowl XLI.
In that 2006 season, he returned 47 punts for 600 yards (12.8 average) and three TDs, 20 kickoffs for 528 yards (26.4 average) and two touchdowns and also returned a missed field goal 108 yards for a touchdown – one of only four such “kick-six” scores in an NFL game.
Hester opened Super Bowl XLI with 92-yard kickoff return for a touchdown – the only time in Super Bowl history that has occurred.
He followed his All-Pro rookie season by setting more records in 2007. Among the many highlights in that All-Pro season was a game against Denver in which he returned both a punt (75 yards) and a kickoff (88 yards) for touchdowns. Overall that year, Hester returned two kickoffs and four punts for scores, establishing an NFL record for six combined kick returns for TDs.
Hester earned first-team All-Pro honors a third time with a 2010 season that saw him lead the NFL with 564 yards and three touchdowns on punt returns.
For his career, Hester took 14 punts and five kickoffs to the end zone in 156 regular-season games.
He was selected to play in four Pro Bowls (2007–08, 2011, 2015) and earned one of the two spots for return specialists on the NFL 100 All-Time Team. He also was named to the NFL’s All- Decade Team of the 2010s.
(4) – 2007, 2008, 2011, 2015
League Records
• [1st] Most Punt Return Touchdowns, Career – 14
• [1st] Most Combined Kick Return Touchdowns, Career – 19 (p-14, k-5)
• [1st] Most Combined Kick Return Touchdowns, Season – 6 (p-4, k-2)
• [Tied for 1st] Most Punt Return Touchdowns, Season – 4 (2007)
• [Tied for 1st] Most Kickoff Return Touchdowns, Game – 2 (vs. St. Louis, Dec. 11, 2006)
• [1st] Most Combined Kick Return Touchdowns, Game – 2 (vs. St. Louis, Dec. 11, 2006; k-2); (vs. Denver, Nov. 25, 2007; p-1, k-1)
• [2nd] Most Combined Kick Return Yardage, Game – 314 (vs. Detroit, Sept. 30, 2007; p-95, k-219)
• [2nd] Most Combined Kick Return Touchdowns, Season – 5 (p-3, k-2)
• [2nd] Longest Return of a Missed Field Goal – 108 (vs. N.Y. Giants, Nov. 12, 2006)
• [Tied for 2nd] Most Seasons Leading League in Punt Returns – 2 (2010-11)
• [Tied for 2nd] Most Seasons Leading League in Punt Return Yardage – 2 (2006, 2010)
• [Tied for 2nd] Most Seasons Leading League in Kickoff Return Yardage – 2 (2013-14)
• [2nd] Most Punt Return Touchdowns, Rookie Season – 3 (2006)
• [Tied for 2nd] Most Punt Return Touchdowns, Season – 3 (2013-14)
• [Tied for 2nd] Most Combined Kick Returns, Game – 12 (vs. Detroit, Sept. 30, 2007; p-5, k-9)
• [3rd] Most Punt Return Yardage, Career – 3,695
Postseason Records
• [Tied for 1st] Most Kickoff Return Touchdowns, Game – 1 (vs. Indianapolis, Super Bowl XLI)
• [Tied for 1st] Most Fumbles Recovered, Game, Own and Opponents – 3 (3-own)
Super Bowl Records
• [Tied for 1st] Most Kickoff Return Touchdowns, Game – 1 (vs. Indianapolis, Super Bowl XLI)
Bears records held by Hester
(Records through the 2013 season, Hester’s final season with Chicago)
• [1st] Most Punt Return Yardage, Rookie Season – 600 (2006)
• [1st] Most Punt Return Touchdowns, Rookie Season – 3 (2006)
• [1st] Most Kickoff Return Touchdowns, Rookie Season – 2 (2006)
• [1st] Most Punt Returns, Career – 264
• [1st] Most Punt Return Yardage, Career – 3,241
• [1st] Most Punt Return Yardage, Season – 651 (2007)
• [1st] Most Punt Return Yardage, Game – 152 (at Arizona, Oct. 16, 2006)
• [1st] Highest Punt Return Average, Season – 17.1 (2010)
• [1st] Highest Punt Return Average, Game – 40.7 (vs. Nov. 13, 2011)
• [1st] Most Punt Return Touchdowns, Career – 13
• [1st] Most Punt Return Touchdowns, Season – 4 (2007)
• [1st] Most Punt Fair Catches, Career – 79
• [1st] Most Kickoff Returns, Career – 222
• [1st] Most Kickoff Return Yardage, Career – 5,504
• [1st] Most Kickoff Return Yardage, Game – 249 (vs. Minnesota, Sept. 15, 2013)
• [1st] Highest Kickoff Average, Game – 56.3 (at St. Louis, Dec. 11, 2006)
• [1st] Most Kickoff Return Touchdowns, Game – 2 (at St. Louis, Dec. 11, 2006)
• [1st] Most Combined Return Yardage, Career – 8,745
• [1st] Most Combined Return Yardage, Game – 314 (at Detroit, Sept. 30, 2007; p-95, k-219)
• [1st] Most Combined Return Touchdowns, Career – 18 (p-13, k-5)
• [1st] Most Combined Return Touchdowns, Season – 6 (p-4, k-2)
• [1st] Most Combined Return Touchdowns, Game – 2 (vs. Denver, Nov. 25, 2007; at St. Louis, December 11, 2006)
• [Tied for 1st] Most Field Goal Returns for a Touchdown – 1 (108 yards vs. N.Y. Giants, Nov. 12, 2006
• [2nd] Most Punt Returns, Rookie Season – 47 (2006)
• [2nd] Most Punt Return Yardage, Season – 600 (2006)
• [2nd] Most Punt Return Yardage, Game – 143 (vs. Kansas City, Sept. 16, 2007)
• [2nd] Highest Punt Return Average, Career – 12.3
• [2nd] Highest Punt Return Average, Season – 16.2 (2010)
• [2nd] Most Punt Return Touchdowns, Season – 3 (2006, 2010)
• [2nd] Most Kickoff Return Yardage, Game – 225 (at St. Louis, Dec. 11, 2006)
• [2nd] Most Kickoff Return Touchdowns, Career – 5
• [2nd] Most Combined Return Yardage, Game – 249 (vs. Minnesota, Sept. 15, 2013; p-0, k-249)
• [2nd] Most Combine Return Touchdowns, Season – 5 (p-3, k-2)
• [2nd] Most Fumbles Recovered, Own Team, Career – 14
• [Tied for 2nd] Most Punt Fair Catches, Game – 5 (at Denver, Dec. 11, 2011)
• [3rd] Most Punt Returns, Season – 47 (2006)
• [3rd] Most Punt Return Yardage, Season – 564 (2011)
• [3rd] Highest Punt Return Average, Season – 15.5 (2007)
• [3rd] Most Kickoff Return Yardage, Season – 1,436 (2013)
• [3rd] Most Combined Return Yardage, Game – 246 (at St. Louis, Dec. 11, 2006; p-21, k-225)
• [Tied for 3rd] Most Punt Return Touchdowns, Season – 2 (2011)
Postseason Records
• [1st] Most Punt Returns, Career – 11
• [1st] Most Kickoff Return Touchdowns, Career – 1
• [1st] Longest Kickoff Return – 92t (vs. Indianapolis, Feb. 4, 2007, Super Bowl XLI)
• [3rd] Most Kickoff Return Yardage, Career – 214
• [3rd] Longest Punt Return – 26 (vs. Seattle, Jan. 16, 2011)
• [3rd] Most Kickoff Returns, Career – 9
NFL Statistical Championships
Punt Return Titles: 2010, 2011
Awards and Honors
• 2000s All-Decade Team
• NFL 100 All-Time Team
ANDRE JOHNSON
Times as Finalist: 3 | Year of Eligibility: 3
Position: Wide Receiver
Ht: 6-3, Wt: 229
NFL Career: 2003–2014 Houston Texans, 2015 Indianapolis Colts, 2016 Tennessee Titans
Seasons: 14, Games: 193
College: Miami (Florida)
Drafted: First round (third overall), 2003
Born: July 11, 1981, in Miami
Surpassed 1,000 receiving yards seven times (2004, 2006, 2008–2010, 2012-13) … Led NFL in receptions twice (103 in 2006 and 115 in 2008) and in receiving yards twice (1,575 yards in 2008 and 1,569 yards in 2009) … One of only three players (Jerry Rice, Calvin Johnson) to lead NFL in receiving yards in consecutive seasons in Super Bowl era … Finished career with 1,062 receptions for 14,185 yards and 70 receiving touchdowns … Texans franchise leader in most receiving statistics … Caught five passes for 90 yards and a touchdown as Texans beat Cincinnati in first playoff appearance (2011); followed the next week with eight receptions for 111 yards in narrow loss to Ravens … Three career games with 200+ receiving yards … First-team All-Pro twice (2008–09) … Selected to seven Pro Bowls (2004, 2006, 2008–10, 2012–13) … Member of 2003 NFL All-Rookie Team … First player elected to Texans’ Ring of Honor (2017).
Andre Johnson, a 6’3”, 229-pound wide receiver out of Miami, was selected in the first round (third overall) of the 2003 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans. He played 14 seasons in the League with the Texans (2003-2014), Indianapolis Colts (2015) and Tennessee Titans (2016).
An offensive powerhouse, Johnson helped the Texans reach their first playoff berth in 2011. In 2008, he led the NFL in both receptions (115) and receiving yards (1,575). He followed up that All- Pro season with a league-best 1,569 receiving yards in 2009, another All-Pro season. Johnson also led the NFL with 103 catches in 2006 and finished his career with five 100-plus reception seasons – more than any current member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Johnson is one of three players in the Super Bowl era – along with Calvin Johnson and Jerry Rice – to lead the National Football League in receiving yards in back-to-back years.
His career stats include 1,062 catches for 14,185 yards and 70 touchdowns in 193 regular- season games. Following his final season in Houston (2014), he held dozens of team records, including career receiving yards (13,591), career receptions (1,012) and most seasons (10) leading the team in receptions.
When Johnson retired following the 2016 season, he was tied for third in the NFL with three career games with 200 or more receiving yards. He received first-team All-Pro honors in 2008 and 2009 as well as second-team honors in 2006 and 2012. He was voted to seven Pro Bowls over a 10- year span (2005, 2007, 2009–2011, 2013–14).
He was the first player inducted into the Texans’ Ring of Honor in 2017.
In the NFL Record Book (at time of his retirement following the 2016 season)
• [Tied for 3rd] Most Game 200 or More Receiving Yards Receiving, Career – 3
Texans’ records held by Johnson
(Records through the 2014 season, Johnson’s final season with Houston)
• [1st] Most Receiving Yards, Career – 13,597
• [1st] Most Yards from Scrimmage, Career – 13,651
• [1st] Most Combined Net Yards, Career – 13,651
• [1st] Most Yards from Scrimmage, Game – 273 (vs. Jacksonville, Nov. 18, 2012)
• [1st] Most Combined Net Yards, Game – 273 (vs. Jacksonville, Nov. 18, 2012)
• [1st] Most Seasons Leading Team in Receptions – 10
• [1st] Most Consecutive Seasons Leading Team in Receptions – 4 (2003–06)
• [1st] Most Receptions, Career – 1,012
• [1st] Most Season, 50 or More Receptions – 11 (2003–2010, 2012–14)
• [1st] Most Receptions, Season – 115 (2008)
• [1st] Most Receptions, Rookie Season – 66 (2003)
• [1st] Most Receptions, Game – 14 (vs. Jacksonville, Nov. 18, 2012)
• [1st] Most Consecutive Games with a Pass Reception – 133 (Nov. 6, 2005-Dec. 21, 2014)
• [1st] Most Seasons Leading Team in Receiving Yards – 10 (2003-2010, 2012-13)
• [1st] Most Consecutive Seasons Leading Team in Receiving Yards – 8 (2003–2010)
• [1st] Most Seasons 1,000 or More Receiving Yards – 7 (2004, 2006, 2008–10, 2012–13)
• [1st] Most Receiving Yards, Season – 1,598 (2012)
• [1st] Most Receiving Yards, Rookie Season – 976 (2003)
• [1st] Most Yards Receiving, Game – 273 (vs. Jacksonville, Nov. 18, 2012)
• [1st] Most Games 100 or More Yards Receiving, Career – 51
• [1st] Most Games 100 or More Yards Receiving, Season – 8 (2008)
• [1st] Highest Receiving Average, Game – 30.50 (at Buffalo, Nov. 16, 2003; 4-122)
• [1st] Most Seasons Leading Team in TD Receptions – 8 (2003–04, 2006–2010, 2013)
• [1st] Most Consecutive Seasons Leading Team in TD Receptions – 5 (2006–2010)
• [1st] Most Touchdown Receptions, Career – 64
• [1st] Most Touchdown Receptions, Game – 3 (vs. Indianapolis, Nov. 3, 2013)
• [1st] Most Two-Point Conversions, Career – 2
• [1st] Most Seasons – 12
• [1st] Most Games Played, Career – 169
• [1st] Most Games Started, Career – 169
• [1st] Most Consecutive Games 100 or More Yards Receiving, Season – 4 (Oct. 5, 2008–Oct. 26, 2008)
• [1st] Highest Receiving Average, Career – 13.44
• [1st] Most Touchdown Receptions, Season – 9 (2009)
• [Tied for 1st] Most Touchdown Receptions, Rookie Game – 2 (vs. Kansas City Chiefs, Sept. 21, 2003)
• [Tied for 1st] Most Consecutive Games with a Touchdown Reception – 4 (Dec. 2, 2007–Dec. 23, 2007; Dec. 13, 2010–Sept. 18, 2011)
• [Tied for 1st] Most Seasons Leading Team in Touchdowns – 4 (2006–07, 2009, 2013)
• [Tied for 1st] Most Touchdown, Game – 3 (vs. Indianapolis, Nov. 3, 2013)
• [2nd] Most Combined Attempts, Career – 1,035
• [2nd] Most Consecutive Seasons Leading Team in Receptions – 3 (2008-10, 2012–14)
• [2nd] Most Receptions, Season – 112 (2012)
• [2nd] Most Receptions, Game – 13 (at. Jacksonville, Dec. 5, 2013)
• [2nd] Most Receiving Yards, Season – 1,575 (2008)
• [2nd] Most Consecutive Games 100 or More Yards Receiving, Season – 3 (Sept. 9, 2007–Nov. 18, 2007)
• [2nd] Highest Receiving Average, Game – 28.67 (at Detroit, Sept. 19, 2004; 3-86)
• [2nd] Most Touchdown Receptions, Rookie Season – 4 (2003)
• [2nd] Most Consecutive Seasons Leading Team in Touchdowns – 2 (2006–07)
• [2nd] Most Touchdowns, Career – 64
• [2nd] Most Games 100 or More Yards Receiving, Season – 6 (2009, 2010, 2012, 2013)
• [Tied for 2nd] Most Points, Game – 18 (vs. Indianapolis, Nov. 3, 2013)
• [Tied for 2nd] Most Touchdown Receptions, Season – 8 (2007, 2008, 2010)
• [3rd] Most Points, Career – 388
• [3rd] Most Yards from Scrimmage, Rookie Season – 966
• [3rd] Most Receiving Yards, Season – 1,569 (2009)
• [3rd] Most Yards Receiving, Game – 229 (vs. Indianapolis, Nov. 3, 2013)
• [3rd] Highest Receiving Average, Season – 15.53 (2009)
• [3rd] Most Receptions, Season – 109 (2013)
• [Tied for 3rd] Most Seasons Leading Team in Combined Net Yards – 2 (2009, 2013)
• [4th] Most Receiving Yards, Season – 1,407 (2013)
• [4th] Most Receptions, Season – 103 (2006)
• [Tied for 4th] Most Points, Rookie Season – 24 (2003)
• [Tied for 4th] Most Fumbles, Career – 10
• [Tied for 4th] Most Own Fumbles Recovered, Career – 4
• [5th] Most Receiving Yards, Season – 1,216 (2010)
Postseason Records
• [1st] Longest Pass Reception – 40TD (From T.J. Yates vs. Cincinnati, Jan. 7, 2012)
• [1st] Most Receptions, Career – 25
• [1st] Most Receiving Yards, Career – 358
• [1st] Most Receiving Yards, Season – 201
• [1st] Most Receiving Yards, Game – 111 (at Baltimore, Jan. 15, 2012)
• [1st] Most Games, 100 or More Yards Receiving, Career – 1
• [1st] Most Games, 100 or More Yards Receiving, Season – 1 (2011)
• [1st] Highest Receiving Average, Career – 14.3
• [1st] Highest Receiving Average, Season – 15.5 (2011)
• [1st] Highest Receiving Average, Game – 18.0 (vs. Cincinnati, Jan. 7, 2012)
• [1st] Most Two-Point Conversions, Career – 1
• [1st] Most Two-Point Conversions, Season – 1 (2012)
• [1st] Most Two-Point Conversions, Game – 1 (at New England, Jan. 13, 2013)
• [Tied for 1st] Most Touchdown Receptions, Career – 1
• [Tied for 1st] Most Touchdown Receptions, Season – 1
• [Tied for 1st] Most Touchdown Receptions, Game – 1 (vs. Cincinnati, Jan. 7, 2012)
• [2nd] Most Yards from Scrimmage, Career – 358
• [2nd] Most Combined Net Yards, Career – 358
• [2nd] Most Combined Attempts, Career – 25
• [2nd] Most Receiving Yards, Game – 95 (at New England, Jan. 13, 2013)
• [Tied for 2nd] Most Receptions, Game – 8 (at New England, Jan. 13, 2013; at Baltimore, Jan. 15, 2012)
• [Tied for 2nd] Most Touchdowns, Career – 1
• [Tied for 2nd] Most Touchdowns, Season – 1
• [3rd] Most Yards from Scrimmage, Season – 201
• [3rd] Most Receptions, Season – 13
• [3rd] Most Receiving Yards, Season – 157
• [3rd] Highest Receiving Average, Season – 13.1 (2012)
• [3rd] Highest Receiving Average, Game – 15.5 (vs. Cincinnati, Jan. 5, 2013)
• [3rd] Most Combined Yards, Career – 358
• [4th] Most Receptions, Season – 12
• [5th] Most Yards from Scrimmage, Game – 111 (at Baltimore, Jan. 15, 2012)
NFL Statistical Championships
Pass Reception Titles: 2006, 2008
Pass Receiving Yardage Titles: 2008, 2009
Awards and Honors
• 2003 NFL Rookie of the Week (Week 4)
• 2003 NFL Rookie of the Week (Week 11)
• 2004 Touchdown Club Player of the Year
• 2006 AFC Offensive Player of the Week (Week 4)
• 2006 NFL Alumni Wide Receiver of the Year
• 2006 Touchdown Club Player of the Year
• 2008 AFC Offensive Player of the Month (October)
• 2008 NFL Alumni Wide Receiver of the Year
• 2009 NFL Alumni Wide Receiver of the Year
• 2010 AFC Offensive Player of the Week (Week 2)
• 2012 AFC Offensive Player of the Month (November)
STEVE McMICHAEL
Times as Finalist: 1 | Year of eligibility: 29
Position: Defensive Tackle/Nose Tackle
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 270
NFL career: 1980 New England Patriots,
1981-1993 Chicago Bears, 1994 Green Bay Packers
Seasons: 15 | Games: 213
College: Texas
Drafted: Third round (73rd overall), 1980
Born: Oct. 17, 1957, in Houston
Selected by New England in third round (73rd overall) of 1980 NFL Draft out of the University of Texas … Signed with Chicago in 1981 after being released by Patriots … Started franchise-record 191 consecutive games for Bears in 13 seasons … Finished career with most tackles (814) and most sacks (92.5) in Bears history … Twice led Chicago in sacks: 1988, 1992 … Member of Bears’ defenses that allowed the fewest points, rushing yards and total yards in the NFL from 1982-1991 … Played in 14 career playoff games, making 11 starts … Won Super Bowl XX with Bears over Patriots, started at left defensive tackle and recorded a sack … Forced 13 fumbles, recovered 17 and had three safeties in 15 total seasons … Earned first-team All-Pro three times (1985-87) … Two Pro Bowl nods (1988, 1989)
The New England Patriots selected Steve McMichael, a consensus All-America selection at the University of Texas, in the third round (73rd overall) of the 1980 NFL Draft. After playing in only six regular-season games, the Patriots released him before the start of the 1981 season.
The following season, after an injury to one of their starting defensive linemen, the Chicago Bears brought in McMichael to back up Hall of Famer Alan Page during his final season. Unbeknownst to them at the time, the Bears had found the quintessential ironman to bolster their defensive unit.
At 6-feet-2 and 270 pounds, McMichael played in a franchise-record 191 consecutive games for the Bears, becoming a starter at defensive tackle during the 1983 campaign. As a full-time starter, McMichael went on to earn two Pro Bowl nods (1986 and 1987) and three consecutive first-team All-Pro selections (1985-87).
“Mongo” became a vital part of the Chicago Bears’ Super Bowl run as the club looked to end their championship drought of nearly 20 years. From 1982 until 1991, the Bears allowed the fewest points, rushing yards, and total yards in the NFL while recording the most sacks. McMichael played a role in the Bears winning six division championships and Super Bowl XX in 1986 against his former club, the New England Patriots. In his lone Super Bowl, McMichael started at left defensive tackle and recorded a sack.
McMichael helped the Bears set numerous defensive team records in 1984, including the fewest yards allowed (3,863) and most sacks (72; McMichael had 10). The Bears’ 72 total sacks still stand as an NFL record.
McMichael’s 92.5 career sacks rank second in Bears history, behind Hall of Famer Richard Dent. Twice, in 1988 (11.5) and 1992 (10.5), McMichael led the team in the category, and he totaled seven seasons with eight or more.
Bears’ records held by McMichael at the time of his retirement following the 1994 season
• [1st] Most Safeties, Career – 3
• [1st] Most Tackles, Career – 814
• [1st] Most Games Played, Career – 191
• [1st] Most Consecutive Games Played, Career – 191
• [1st] Most Consecutive Games with at least .5 Sack – 6 (Oct. 29 to Dec. 3, 1989)
• [2nd] Most Sacks, Career – 92.5
• [2nd] Most Forced Fumbles, Career – 12
• [2nd] Most Double-Digit Sack Seasons, Career – 3 (1984, 1988, 1992)
• [2nd] Most Consecutive Games with at least .5 Sack – 5 (Nov. 6 to Dec. 4, 1983)
• [Tied for 2nd] Most Seasons Played – 13
JULIUS PEPPERS
Times as Finalist: 1 | Year of Eligibility: 1
Position: Defensive End/Outside linebacker
Ht: 6-7, Wt: 295
NFL Career: 2002–09, 2017–18 Carolina Panthers,
2010–13 Chicago Bears, 2014–16 Green Bay Packers
Seasons: 17, Games: 266
College: North Carolina
Drafted: First round (second overall), 2002
Born: Jan. 18, 1980, in Wilson N.C.
Dominant defensive end who finished career fourth on all-time sacks list with 159.5 … Only player in NFL history with at least 100 sacks and 10 or more interceptions … Second all-time with 52 career forced fumbles … At the time of retirement, ranked sixth all-time among defensive players with 266 games played … Carolina Panthers franchise leader in sacks (97), forced fumbles (34) and blocked field goals (eight) … One of four players to record 10 seasons with 10-plus sacks, other three are Hall of Famers … Named 2002 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year by AP and PFWA … Led league with 18 tackles for loss in 2006 … Totaled 719 tackles, 175 tackles for loss, 186 quarterback hits … Voted to nine Pro Bowls … Three time first-team All-Pro, three times on second team … Member of the NFL’s All-Decade Team of both the 2000s and 2010s.
The second overall pick by the Carolina Panthers in the 2002 NFL Draft, Julius Peppers became one of the most dominant pass rushers of his era. Playing for three franchises over a 17- year career, Peppers was the single-season sack leader for each at least once (Carolina, seven seasons; Chicago, four; and Green Bay, one).
As a rookie, Peppers earned AP and PFWA Defensive Rookie of the Year after averaging a sack per game, totaling 12 on the season. Peppers would register 10-plus sacks in 10 seasons, tied for third most in NFL history at the time of his retirement.
In his second season, Peppers helped the Panthers win the NFC South Division and three playoff games to reach Super Bowl XXXVIII – a three-point loss to the Patriots.
Peppers’ first All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections came after the 2004 season, which saw the defensive end record 11 sacks, nine additional tackles for loss, nine passes defensed and a 97-yard interception return for a touchdown. In 2008, he helped the Panthers to a 12-4 record and first place in the NFC South, totaling 14.5 sacks and 17 tackles for loss.
In 2010, Peppers signed with the Chicago Bears, earning Pro Bowl honors and leading the team in sacks in all four years with the club. The Bears returned to the NFC Championship Game for only the second time since 1988.
For his career, Peppers appeared and started in 18 playoff games, recording 49 total tackles,6.5 sacks and 11 tackles for loss.
He hold the Panthers’ team records for sacks (97), forced fumbles (34) and blocked field goals (eight).
A member of both the NFL’s All-Decade Teams of the 2000s and 2010s, Peppers’ 159.5 career cks rank fourth on the league’s all-time list.
Awards and Honors
• 2002 NFC Defensive Rookie of the Month (October)
• 2002 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year
• 2002 PFWA Defensive Rookie of the Year
• 2004 NFC Defensive Player of the Month (November)
• 2006 NFC Defensive Player of the Week (Week 10)
• 2006 NFC Defensive Player of the Month (October)
• 2008 NFC Defensive Player of the Month (November)
• 2009 NFC Defensive Player of the Week (Week 8)
• 2017 NFC Defensive Player of the Week (Week 4)
• NFL All-Decade Team of 2000s
• NFL All-Decade Team of 2010s
Defensive end Julius Peppers currently ranks fourth all-time in league history with 154.5 sacks and owns Carolina's franchise record of 92.0 sacks. In his 16 NFL seasons, Pep- pers has finished with at seven sacks 15 times.
NFL CAREER SACK LEADERS
Bruce Smith (1985–2003) 200.0
Reggie White (1985–2000) 198.0
Kevin Greene (1986–99) 160.0
Julius Peppers (2002–17) 154.5
PATRICK WILLIS
Times as Finalist: 2 | Year of Eligibility: 5
Position: Linebacker
Ht: 6-1, Wt: 242
NFL Career: 2007–2014 San Francisco 49ers
Seasons: 8, Games: 112
College: Mississippi
Drafted: First round (11th Overall), 2007
Born: Jan. 25, 1985, in Bruceton, Tenn.
Immediate starter for 49ers after joining team as 11th overall selection in 2007 NFL Draft … Totaled 174 tackles, four sacks, seven QB hits and eight tackles for loss in earning 2007 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year Award … Named first-team All-Pro five times in eight NFL seasons (2007, 2009, 2010-12) … Selected to Pro Bowl following seven consecutive seasons (2007-2013) … Won NFL’s version of the Butkus Award (then in its second year) in 2009, following his best season statistically overall: 152 tackles, four sacks, three forced fumbles, eight pass deflections and career-bests of three interceptions and 13 tackles for loss … Won the Bill Walsh Award in 2009 as the 49ers’ most valuable player … Contributed 10 tackles in Super Bowl XLVII loss to Baltimore Ravens … Career stats include 20.5 sacks, 60 tackles for loss, eight interceptions and 16 forced fumbles. … Named to the NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 2010s.
Patrick Willis joined the San Francisco 49ers as the team’s first-round selection in the 2007 NFL Draft. He was the No. 11 pick overall and first linebacker chosen.
Given Willis’s college accolades, the high draft slot came as little surprise. He had been named an All-American following his standout senior year at the University of Mississippi. That season, he won the SEC Defensive Player of the Year award and both the Butkus Award and the Jack Lambert Award as the nation's top collegiate linebacker.
With the 49ers, Willis stepped into the starting lineup as a rookie and made an immediate impact. He totaled 174 tackles (according to Pro Football Reference), four sacks and eight tackles for loss. He also forced two fumbles and defensed five passes. For his efforts, he earned the Defensive Rookie of the Year Award from The Associated Press, was named a first-team All-Pro and was the only rookie invited to the Pro Bowl – his first of seven consecutive selections to that game in an injury-shortened eight-year career.
Willis continued to build his reputation and resume in 2008 and came back in 2009 with perhaps his best overall season statistically: 152 tackles, four sacks, three forced fumbles, eight pass deflections and career-bests with three interceptions and 13 tackles for loss. He won the NFL’s version of the Butkus Award, then in its second season. He also won the Bill Walsh Award as the 49ers most valuable player.
In 2011, he anchored one of the NFL’s top defenses, which set an NFL record by not allowing a rushing touchdown until Week 16. The 49ers finished 13-3, won the NFC West for first time since 2002 and reached the NFC title game. One year later, they played in the Super Bowl, with Willis contributing 10 tackles in the loss to the Ravens.
Willis finished his career with 20.5 sacks, eight interceptions and 16 forced fumbles. He was selected to the NFL’s All Decade Team of the 2010s and was a five-time AP first-team All-Pro.
49ers records held by Willis
(Records through the 2014 season, Willis’ final season with San Francisco)
• [Tied for 3rd] Most Interceptions Returned for a Touchdown, Career – 2
• [Tied for 7th] Longest Interception Return – 86t (at Seattle, Sept. 14, 2008)
• [Tied for 10th] Most Interception Return Yards, Game – 86 (at Seattle, Sept. 14, 2008)
AWARDS AND HONORS
• 2007 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year
• 2007 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month (October)
• 2007 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month (December)
• 2007 Bill Walsh Award
• 2009 Bill Walsh Award
• 2009 Linebacker of the Year (NFL Alumni)
• 2011 NFL Defensive Player of the Week (Week 5)
• 2012 NFL Defensive Player of the Week (Week 4)
• 2010s All-Decade Team