2017 Pro Football Hall of Fame: Predicting the Likely Favorites

Nov 22, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; Former San Diego Chargers running back Ladainian Tomlinson during his Charger Hall of Fame introduction during halftime of the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 22, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; Former San Diego Chargers running back Ladainian Tomlinson during his Charger Hall of Fame introduction during halftime of the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs former player Hines Ward prior to the 2016 Chick-Fil-A Kickoff game against the North Carolina Tar Heels at Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs former player Hines Ward prior to the 2016 Chick-Fil-A Kickoff game against the North Carolina Tar Heels at Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

Dark horses:

These are the guys that have certain Hall of Fame qualities about them that may sway voters. At the same time they may not have done enough or have stiff competition to where it will be difficult to sell.

Morten Andersen

He played 25 years in the NFL. Sure he’s a kicker but that’s still pretty impressive. Also being the all-time scoring leader in league history with 2,544 points certainly should help his case.

Isaac Bruce

The quiet killer of the “Greatest Show on Turf” Rams. Bruce was the guy who always made the big plays when they mattered most. He delivered e a Super Bowl-winning catch, so that should help.

Alan Faneca

Played 13 seasons at a high level. That’s extraordinarily difficult for an offensive lineman. Faneca went to nine Pro Bowls and helped Pittsburgh win the Super Bowl in 2005.

Jimmy Johnson

The architect of the Dallas Cowboys dynasty of the 1990s. Built a juggernaut that won three Super Bowls in four seasons. Unfortunately may have hurt himself by leaving the team too soon.

Kevin Mawae

For 16 years he was one of the best, most underrated interior offensive linemen in the league. An eight-time Pro Bowler who reached his first at age 28 and last at age 38. Consistent excellence.

Clay Matthews

One of the most enduring linebackers in recent memory. Matthews played 19 years, collected over 1,500 tackles, 69.5 sacks and 16 interceptions. Cleveland hasn’t been the same since he left.

Hines Ward

Probably the most physical wide receiver in NFL history. Ward was a linebacker playing that position. He reached four Pro Bowls, won two Super Bowls and delivered some iconic hits.

Darren Woodson

On a team of stars, he was always the overlooked man. Woodson patrolled the back end of the Cowboys defense during the dynasty years, picking up three rings and five Pro Bowls.