Randy Gradishar, the legendary Denver Broncos linebacker, is one step closer to securing his well-deserved place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The Pro Football Hall of Fame announced that Gradishar has been selected as one of the three senior finalists for the 2024 class from the Seniors Committee.
If Gradishar receives approval from 80% or more of the full Selection Committee during its meeting next year, he will be officially inducted into the prestigious Pro Football Hall of Fame. This would bring an end to Gradishar’s long wait to enter the esteemed institution.
Gradishar’s football career was nothing short of remarkable. He first made a name for himself at Ohio State University, where he earned consensus All-American status in 1972 and 1973. His exceptional performance even led to him being considered for the Heisman Trophy, finishing sixth in the voting in 1973. Legendary coach Woody Hayes hailed him as the best linebacker he had ever coached, a high praise considering the caliber of linebackers that passed through Ohio State.
After his college years, Gradishar carried his dominance into the professional ranks with the Denver Broncos. Although tackle statistics were not officially recorded during his playing days, it is estimated that he accumulated an astonishing 2,049 tackles throughout his career. This would place him second on the all-time list, only behind Ray Lewis. Gradishar’s average of over 200 tackles per season showcases his incredible contribution to the game.
Gradishar’s impact extended beyond tackles. He recorded 20 interceptions and returned three of them for touchdowns during his career. His versatility as a linebacker was truly remarkable. Former Pro Football Weekly personnel scout Joel Buchsbaum even compared him to the legendary Jack Lambert, emphasizing Gradishar’s exceptional anticipation, tackling ability, and expertise in short-yardage defense.
During his time with the Broncos, Gradishar played a pivotal role in the team’s defensive prowess. He was an integral part of the Broncos’ famous Orange Crush defense that helped the team reach Super Bowl XII in 1977. The following year, he was named both the AP and UPI Defensive Player of the Year. Gradishar was selected for the Pro Bowl on seven occasions and was a two-time first-team All-Pro.
This is not the first time Gradishar has been nominated for the Hall of Fame. He previously made it to the finalist stage in 2003 and 2008. Nevertheless, his induction would make him the 11th player, coach, or contributor from Ohio State to be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. In addition, he would become just the fourth Buckeye to be a member of both the College and Pro Football Halls of Fame, joining Orlando Pace, Jim Parker, and Bill Willis.
As the anticipation builds, football fans eagerly await the decision of the Selection Committee next year. If everything falls into place and Gradishar’s decades-long wait finally comes to an end, it will be a well-deserved honor for a player who left an indelible mark on the game and solidified his place among the elite in football history.
