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That's why no one was shocked Peyton Manning,
who retired after the 2015 season, was announced as one of six
first-time finalists Tuesday.
The former Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos quarterback was
among 15 finalists that will be voted on by a 48-member
Selection Committee during a virtual meeting Jan. 19. A maximum
of five modern-day players can be elected by getting approval
from 80 percent of the committee.
The winners will be announced Super Bowl weekend.
Manning, a 14-time Pro Bowler and seven-time first-team All-Pro
selection, as well as a two-time Super Bowl champion, ranks
third on the NFL all-time passing yards list and passing
touchdown list. He shared the 2003 NFL MVP with Steve McNair and
won it outright four other times (2004, 2008, 2009, 2013).
Defensive back Charles Woodson, wide receiver Calvin Johnson,
defensive lineman Jared Allen, cornerback Ronde Barber and
linebacker Clay Matthews Jr., were the other first-time
finalists.
Offensive lineman Tony Boselli, safety LeRoy Butler, offensive
lineman Alan Faneca, wide receiver Torry Holt, safety John
Lynch, linebacker Sam Mills, defensive lineman Richard Seymour,
linebacker Zach Thomas and wide receiver Reggie Wayne are also
among this year's finalists.
This is Matthews' 20th year of eligibility.
The committee will also vote on Tom Flores in the coach
category, scout Bill Nunn as a contributor and receiver Drew
Pearson as a senior candidate.
Inductees are scheduled to go into the Hall in a ceremony in
August along with the class of 2020 and a special centennial
class. The coronavirus pandemic postponed the latter two groups
from having their ceremonies this year.
--Field Level Media
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