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SUNDAY, JULY 12, 2020

LOCAL NEWS: Sunday, July 12, 2020

Star Tribune

Fall football forecast: Maybe the NFL plays By Jim Souhan https://www.startribune.com/souhan-fall-football-forecast-sees-maybe-the-nfl-playing/571730082/

The Athletic

Vikings Training Camp Guide — WRs: All eyes on Adam Thielen By Arif Hasan https://theathletic.com/1921399/2020/07/11/vikings-training-camp-guide-wrs-all-eyes-on-adam-thielen-heading-into- season/

NATIONAL NEWS: Sunday, July 12, 2020

CBS Sports

Every NFL team's best player who is not enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, yet By Bryan DeArdo https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/every-nfl-teams-best-player-who-is-not-enshrined-in-the-pro-football-hall-of- fame-yet/

PUBLICATION: Star Tribune DATE: 7/12/20

Fall football forecast: Maybe the NFL plays

By Jim Souhan

During his time as a Vikings executive, Kevin Warren became known for honesty and caution. So when Warren, the newish commissioner of the Big Ten, said this week that his conference might not play football this fall, you should have heard alarm bells.

In the past couple of weeks, the Big Ten canceled nonconference games, the schools superintendent expressed doubt that there will be in Texas, the NFL canceled two weeks of preseason games, star J.J. Watt said he wouldn’t play this season if he has to wear a face shield, Bucs left Donovan Smith said playing “does not seem like a risk worth taking,” the NFL Players Association expressed a preference for canceling the rest of the preseason, the NFL asked for 35% of players’ salaries to be placed in escrow to help manage league costs and the league banned socializing on the field after games.

In other sports, key players have opted out or considered doing so, with San Francisco Giants star catcher Buster Posey declining to play.

Warren’s words and those of Dallas superintendent Michael Hinojosa might be the most alarming to football fans and anyone else trying to decide how seriously to take the coronavirus.

The , Big Ten schools and the Big Ten Network will lose a massive amount of money if football isn’t played.

And to understand the importance of prep football in Texas, you can watch “Friday Night Lights” or just think of hockey in our state and spread it out over a space that is 229% larger than Minnesota. Football is even bigger in Texas than hockey is in Minnesota.

All of these developments raise two questions:

Will there be football this fall?

Should there be football this fall?

There are three categories of football to address.

The first is nonrevenue football — youth leagues, middle schools, high schools, smaller colleges. These are teams that can’t afford to place their players in a bubble. A high school player not only could spread the virus to his teammates, he could carry the virus home to his family. For football teams with no major financial incentive to play, why would you take the risk of getting people sick, and perhaps getting sued?

The second category is revenue-producing college teams. They could be better prepared to keep their players within some kind of functional bubble, and they have financial incentive to play, but can they ask players to risk their health for an institution that refuses to pay them?

The third category is the NFL. NFL players get paid and are represented by a union. They are adults who can accept the risks of playing during a pandemic.

But should they play? And should they be asked to?

The NFL is simultaneously telling its players that they can smash headfirst into each other for 60 minutes but it’s not safe to exchange jerseys after time expires.

It feels like we’re on our way to cancellations at every level of football below the NFL.

The NFL has never cared much about player safety, so the question is whether players will object to playing, and how many would have to opt out for the league to cancel or postpone the season.

Had America handled the pandemic more intelligently, the football season would not be in doubt. With cases spiking all over the country, the sports world is merely reflecting America’s state of crisis.

If the virus were a hoax or a passing concern, NFL teams, all of which are owned by billionaire businesspeople, would be playing their full schedules and making their full profits. They have been forced to react to the virus because the virus, if you want to put it in sporting terms, is beating America in a historic blowout.

In Vikings terms, right now it’s Virus 41, America donut.

Want sports? Wear a mask. Practice social distancing. Care about someone other than yourself, even if that someone is a player on your favorite NFL team.

PUBLICATION: The Athletic DATE: 7/12/20

Vikings Training Camp Guide — WRs: All eyes on Adam Thielen

By Arif Hasan

(Editor’s note: This is part of a series of position-by-position articles breaking down every player on the Vikings roster as we build up to the start of training camp later this month. We’ve already covered the and running backs. Next up, the wide receivers. Still to come: Tight ends, offensive line, defensive line, , and safeties.)

For a that seems to either thrive or drop off based on the strength of the supporting cast around him, Kirk Cousins might be more interested than most passers in the state of his receiving corps. Unfortunately, with their top receiver from 2019 traded away — and a good probability of seeing more receivers on the field than last year — the pickings may be slim for Cousins.

That said, there’s a high degree of uncertainty, which means any pessimism can be countered by equally well- evidenced optimism. No receiver featuring for the Vikings in 2020 will have taken over 600 snaps last year, but there’s good reason to believe that their previous receptions leader and first-round pick can immediately return the corps to form. At the same time, relying on a player coming off of injury and potentially leaving his prime to work with a rookie to bring the position to its previous heights might be asking a bit much.

It could be the case that the corps exceeds expectations while simultaneously failing to provide enough support to vault the passing game to the next level. On the other hand, the Vikings just need a repeat performance from Adam Thielen and a first-round effort from their first-round receiver to catapult Cousins into contention.

Adam Thielen With a phenomenal 2018 behind him, Thielen’s 2019 was nothing short of disappointing if only because injuries prevented him from seeing the field. Now forced into a role as the workhorse of the passing offense with no proven stars to relieve the pressure, the microscope will be focused directly on Thielen and his ability to beat opposing corners. With an offense that might be a bit more focused on throwing the ball than last year, how Thielen performs might dictate how the team performs.

Strengths: Thielen is a remarkable route-runner — does a great job setting up defensive backs for one or two routes and then running a different, third one. He engages in that kind of deception without compromising dropback or route timing. Route fakes include head, shoulder, hip and foot movement. He’s extremely effective with stop-and-go moves that create significant space and the ability to vary route speed enhances the potential to deceive defensive backs. He boasts above-average NFL speed and agility with no weak route in his route tree. Can win on deep, intermediate or short throws on the sideline or over the middle. Fantastic body control, allows him to prevent catches from becoming contested by boxing out defensive backs at the catch point. Sideline maven. Strong hands — low drop rate and one of the best contested-catch artists in the NFL. Thielen does a great job reading defenses and adjusting routes to accommodate that — finds space against zone very well and manipulates defensive back leverage at a high level. Really fantastic release off the line of scrimmage, his single-best trait and perhaps better than any other player in the NFL, and as a result can win against press and off coverage. Deception works at the release, throughout the route and at the catch point, even flashing “late hands” to prevent defensive backs from contesting the ball.

Weaknesses: The injury concern is magnified by age. While Thielen isn’t old by receiver standards, he’s likely hitting the back end of his prime as he’ll enter the season at 30 years old. Given the recurring nature of back injuries — sustained in 2018 and a factor in the NFC Championship game against the Eagles — along with the repeated hamstring injuries throughout the 2019 season, there’s reason to believe that Thielen will be an injury risk going forward and may not be available for multiple 16-game seasons. Even if healthy, the injuries could result in a loss of physical prowess, something we saw for brief moments of the 2019 season when he returned from injury the first time. Despite above-average athletic traits, Thielen has no overwhelming physical trait, whether that’s speed, quickness, explosive capability or strength — meaning he can’t really be a “matchups” receiver. Fluid but not a ton of suddenness in cuts — separation completely reliant on technical skill. Anticipatory corners can close down on those routes. He’s better in the slot than outside, potentially impacting the ability of the Vikings to optimize their receiver lineup. Some fumbling issues between 2016 and 2018.

MIN - WRAdam Thielen ADVANCED STATS 2017-2019 YPRR 2.15 8th DROP RATE 4.49% 16th PFF GRADE 84.1 8th Stats courtesy of PFF, of 92 WRs Justin Jefferson (Don Juan Moore / Getty Images) Justin Jefferson Tasked with the frightening prospect of “replacing” Stefon Diggs, Jefferson will carry the dual burdens of entering the team after an elite receiver was traded away as well as the trial of proving himself worthy of a first-round selection in an overwhelmingly good draft class at wide receiver. After a remarkable two seasons in an NFL-style offense at LSU, Jefferson is primed to step in right away and contribute, especially without much competition ahead of him for a starting role.

Strengths: Many of his strengths match that of the departing Diggs and newfound receiving partner Thielen, potentially making his transition into the offense relatively easy. Jefferson worked in an NFL-style offense under offensive coordinator Joe Brady at LSU and many of the concepts he’ll be asked to work with in the NFL will mirror what he learned in college. He has great body control and ball tracking and, per PFF, had the best contested-catch win rate of draft-eligible NFL receivers. His catch technique is close to ideal — does a great job looking the ball in, catching the ball outside of his body and frames the catch with his hands. Does a good job as a route-runner generating space, primarily through quickness and deception. He varies speed in-route to bait defensive backs and boasts remarkable suddenness as a route runner. Great hesitation and double-moves, with foot fakes and head fakes in his repertoire. Has impressive strength for his size, shows up both at the catch point and in his ability to generate yards-after-the-catch as he breaks tackles. Scored extremely well on Vikings’ psychological testing.

Weaknesses: His slight frame invites concerns about long-term durability. He doesn’t demonstrate elite speed and may not be a deep threat without Thielen-level route-running capability. Spent most of his time in the slot in 2019, with his snaps outside coming in 2018. While he performed excellently in 2018, his ability to win against press coverage hasn’t been established at a high level yet. Releases off the line of scrimmage are a work in progress and could struggle early against physicality. Issues against physicality also show up in-route; gets bounced around. Jefferson thrived against zone coverage but had issues against talented man-coverage corners, especially aggressive ones willing to challenge him physically. Concentration is iffy — can hold on to tough catches through contact but will occasionally lose focus on easy catches and drop them.

(David Berding / USA Today) Olabisi Johnson Perhaps the favorite to win the third wide-receiver job, Bisi Johnson is poised to take advantage of the potential for Minnesota to deploy more three-receiver sets. After a much better season than one might expect from a seventh- round rookie, Johnson’s next task is to build on that performance and become a legitimate contributor as a regular feature of the offense. That spot as the third receiver isn’t guaranteed by any means, and it could even be the case that improvement in his technique won’t be enough to win the job.

Strengths: Johnson showcased fantastic body control in college and did so again in the NFL, especially late in the season. A large catch radius and ability to track the ball allows him to erase inaccurate throws. Fluid route-runner, does a good job syncing together route-running techniques and moving from one to another. His running style creates deceptive speed, complemented by the ability to vary speed in-route. Already integrates some advanced receiver techniques, like stacking corners on deep routes. He has solid capability after-the-catch, with high-level agility to make defenders miss. Good balance complements his after-catch ability and improves his in-air adjustments as well. He won off the line of scrimmage in college with good releases, and flashes of that have appeared in the NFL. Developed a number of route-running moves in college and flashed a few of them in his first year in the NFL. Vertical numbers (38-inch vertical at the combine) didn’t seem to translate in college but are evident in NFL play. Demonstrated better suddenness on comeback routes in the NFL than in college.

Weaknesses: Johnson’s really phenomenal testing didn’t always show up, especially in agility tests. Limited speed. His route-running is sometimes too deliberate and doesn’t explode out of breaks. Did showcase the ability to generate spring in breaks in college, but he might be thinking too much during routes — not always a natural route- runner. Releases still could use some work — primarily uses lower-body release techniques and needs to improve against jams with hand-fighting. Strength against press and in-route in college hasn’t shown up in the NFL. While not bullied in-route, he doesn’t assert the route path. Still working on integrating known route techniques into natural route-running capability. Doesn’t always path efficiently — sometimes closes off otherwise open routes by drifting or by incorrectly adjusting for defender placement. He can win in man coverage, but doesn’t seem to have the instinct for holes in zone coverage. He also doesn’t always work back to the ball when necessary.

(Charles LeClaire / USA Today) Tajae Sharpe A fifth-round pick that overperformed his rookie year, many were expecting more from Sharpe, the former UMass receiver, as he progressed through his contract. Instead, the Titans saw fit to draft or sign several receivers in his stead, never rising to the challenge of repeating what he did early in his career. The team he premiered against allowed him to get one of his best career performances, and they later signed him — unlikely to be a coincidence. If the Vikings can unlock his clear potential, he might be better than most third receivers in the league.

Strengths: He’s smart and detailed. Develops chemistry with quarterbacks consistently and quickly, largely because he picks up on offensive principles and new offenses quickly. His detailed approach extends to route-running. Sharp routes, very often on time and run with precision. Has good ball skills, does a great job extending for the ball and catching outside of his frame without trapping against his body. He can extend his catch radius this way. Good body control, especially at the catch point. Sharpe is generally good at finding holes in zone coverage and has an instinct for space — fantastic scramble drill asset. Great at finding ways to create exclusive access to the ball, often shielding the reception with his shoulder. Good foot fakes in route and off the line of scrimmage. Consistency in routes makes it difficult for defensive backs to diagnose the concept he’s running. Good size; not many tall receivers on the roster and Sharpe is one of the few over 6-2.

Weaknesses: Aside from height, doesn’t have physical tools to be an effective primary receiver. Struggles in man coverage as a result of limited strength and speed. Quickness is good but not high-level enough to be a “trump card” trait and one reason he doesn’t thrive in the slot. Despite good footwork on release, doesn’t quite win against jams — hand-fighting technique is generally solid but strength concerns prevent him from earning a free release. Speed concerns limit his ability to generate separation on nearly every route type. While his cuts are sharp, he doesn’t accelerate out of his breaks well enough to create more separation at the end of the stem. Acceleration out of release prevents him from eating up cushions in off coverage. Lateral cuts are sharp but comeback routes aren’t sudden enough to consistently juke defensive backs.

(Brad Rempel / USA Today) Chad Beebe Another candidate for the third receiver role, Beebe would be limited to the slot on an NFL field, creating some challenges for a receiving corps that already has players well known for what they do in the slot. Now entering his third year in the NFL, this is likely a crucial point for his future in the league. After injury robbed him of a chance to assert his role as the primary backup receiver, he now faces tougher competition alongside the lingering questions surrounding his health.

Strengths: Very quick as a route-runner, exceeding his pro day testing in this arena. Good at using that quickness to create separation in tight spaces. He’s an ideal two-way go slot route runner, and good at complementing his physical advantage in agility with route-running principles, using a variety of fakes to throw defensive backs off his trail. Sharp cuts are difficult for defenses to follow. Good at tracking the ball and arriving at the catch point. Works back to the ball and tries to get to the pass first. He seems to understand the offense well enough to find space where he needs to — understands sit/follow routes, for example.

Weaknesses: Consistent injury issues in college and in the NFL, including missing full years in both the FBS and NFL. Multiple injuries throughout his years in training camp. Speed and explosiveness are issues and will force him to win underneath and create yards after the catch. Strength issues prevent him from gaining that many yards after contact, making him much more of an outlet receiver than one who can truly drive an offense. High drop rate in college (15.2 percent of passes dropped, per PFF, one of the worst in the FBS), which appeared again in training camp and preseason. Limited catch radius and small hands makes it difficult to correct. The history of small wide receivers with poor hands and poor straight-line speed is dismal. Release skills subpar, especially for outside play. Not enough strength to win space against tight coverage — can get bullied down in routes. Can’t win at the sideline, even in ways smaller receivers typically do — easily pushed out of bounds as the ball arrives, no strength to create new space. Though a sharp route runner, not always precise and can run routes at the wrong route depths or with incorrect timings.

K.J. Osborn (Charles LeClaire / USA Today) K.J. Osborn Seemingly the most likely candidate to earn the kick-return job for the Vikings, Osborn was a prolific returner in college for both Buffalo and Miami but a somewhat lacking receiver. General manager Rick Spielman has expressed confidence that Osborn can become a fairly good receiver in time, but his college resume isn’t quite all there.

Strengths: Despite grad-transferring, Osborn quickly became a captain for the Miami program and led the team in receiving. One of the FBS’ top returners, especially on punts. Like most returners, he has great instinct for space and good after-catch vision. Significant lower-body strength, does a good job of staying balanced and shedding tackles. He’s a constant threat on screens and has good footwork and agility when the ball is in his hands. Was a deep threat for the Hurricanes and has a generally good understanding of deep-route concepts and route-running techniques, including late hands and stacking. Good deep-ball tracking capability.

Weaknesses: Osborn will enter the NFL as a 23-year-old rookie — not alarming but concerning. Never produced very well, especially after accounting for age. His physical capabilities are below-average for a 20-year-old rookie, much less 23. Not a particularly nuanced route-runner on non-vertical routes, leaving him as an older rookie without subsequent technical skill to account for it and an uninteresting athletic profile. Rounds out routes and doesn’t use his agility to create sharp breaks. High drop rate relative to FBS receivers and not particularly great hands technique. “Leading the team in receiving yardage” is a lot less impressive when it turns out to be under 600 yards.

(Harrison Barden / USA Today) Alexander Hollins When the Vikings were running low on receivers as the season was winding down, they didn’t promote their seventh- round pick or the hyped undrafted free agent with a highlight reel that could match any first-rounder — they picked a 165-pound Eastern Illinois alum, nicknamed “Bones” because of his slight frame. Earning four targets at the end of the year, Hollins has already outperformed expectations for an undrafted free agent but may have a tougher slate of receivers to challenge heading into this year. That said, his NFL experience says a lot about what the Vikings think of him, and he didn’t do too badly when called upon.

Strengths: Hollins was extremely productive in college, almost hitting 100 yards per game, though admittedly at the FCS level. His speed on-field exceeds tested speed, which was already fast. Has good agility, too — evident both as a route-runner and after the catch. Agility extends not just to change-of-direction but stop-start quickness and the ability to navigate tight spaces. Generates a good release against press coverage with a variety of moves, using both lower- and upper-body techniques. Despite middling stat line, he did remarkably well against Chicago in Week 17, constantly open against starting-caliber cornerbacks — winning on slants, spray routes, quick outs, deep routes and more. Great use of quickness as a route-runner and single step is often explosive enough to generate separation in- route. Does a good job varying speed in routes. Has good body control, especially at the catch point. Generally good hands technique, working for the ball and catching well outside his frame. Held on to the ball against hits in college and won some contested passes.

Weaknesses: Size will constantly remain a concern. At 165 pounds, he not only represents a significant injury risk but also is subject to being bullied by stronger corners, both on the sideline and at the line of scrimmage. Needs to rely entirely on his agility to separate; separation moves at the stem will likely fail due to strength concerns. Nevertheless, doesn’t seem to utilize too many after the release. While he played on the outside in college and with his limited NFL play, his long-term prospects might require protection from those bigger corners by relegating him to the slot, where the Vikings have more than enough capable bodies. Drops in college and a drop on one of his three catchable NFL targets. College drops look like an issue of focus; NFL drop looks like a simple mistake — could be product of smaller hands. Not a particularly deceptive route-runner, relies more on quickness than route-running technique. Limited catch radius.

(Ben Ludeman / USA Today) Dillon Mitchell After having spent last season on the practice squad, Mitchell found himself a bit behind fellow rookies Olabisi Johnson and Alexander Hollins as the other two found more time on the active game-day squad than he did. Still, what happens in one’s rookie year isn’t destiny and Mitchell could prove to be a unique asset on a team that doesn’t have a verified deep threat.

Strengths: Mitchell was a persistent deep threat for Oregon, creating acres of space for deep shots. Has functional deep speed and good quickness. Plays with suddenness, allowing him to win on comeback routes as well as sharp breaking routes like digs and square-outs. He has great vision, should be a candidate for the kick return role. His ability to turn screens into big plays is a product of reading the open field and following blocks. Generally has good separation technique both in-route and at the line of scrimmage against press. Naturally flows to space as a route- runner.

Weaknesses: He can lose sight of the ball in the air, sometimes loses position against defenders deep downfield. Will need to show improved strength in his second year. College and early training camp showed an athlete with strength issues, meaning his release technique was obviated by press corners with power. Gets pushed around in-route — difficult to maintain sideline and can’t hit his landmarks while corners move him around. The deep threat might not be there in the NFL, though he did occasionally break free in training camp — timed speed isn’t all too imposing and runaway speed isn’t consistently impressive. Drop issues, primarily a result of poor catch technique; traps the ball against his body, doesn’t consistently look the ball in. Remarkably high drop rate for an RBS receiver. Routes only developed vertically — otherwise, fairly basic route-running moves.

Davion Davis (David Berding / USA Today) Davion Davis Plagued by health concerns and overshadowed by Jazz Ferguson in college, Davion Davis didn’t have many ways to stand out but still found a way in the form of one of the better college receiver highlights you’ll ever see. He actually outperformed Ferguson in most games — holding several Sam Houston State receiving records — and has legitimate hopes to bring the remarkable talent that earned him spots on several highlight reels to the NFL.

Strengths: Boasts phenomenal body control. Despite 5-10 frame and 32-inch vertical, Davis might have the most expansive catch radius of the backup wide receivers. Highlight-reel catches aren’t flukes; does a great job tracking the ball, corralling it and keeping it secured. Also a potential competitor for the kick return role; averaged 22.3 yards per kickoff return and 15.7 yards per return in college. Athletic capability maximized as a route runner; generally does a good job deploying quickness for lateral routes and speed for vertical routes. Worked well in an offense that required adjustments from the receiver. Has a good understanding of space and how to enter zones. Understanding of defense should let him play more complicated route concepts reliant on options or sight adjustments.

Weaknesses: His inability to make the active roster last year against a relatively weak bench at the receiver position is a sign that he might not be fit for the NFL. There’s an odd disconnect between tested athletic numbers and on-field performance. Looked much more like his tested numbers in camp than his on-field athletic performance, which is an issue — 32-inch vertical leap and 4.64-second 40-yard dash both bode poorly for the type of game he plays. Relies too much on his athletic advantages, too willingly jumps for the ball and arrests his momentum when he could simply catch the ball in stride. One-note route runner. He runs routes at one speed and doesn’t have an array of route- running moves. The combination of poor athletic profile and technical underdevelopment means prospects overall are probably dim.

(John Glaser / USA Today) Quartney Davis Every year, a few undrafted free agents for the Vikings earn buzz as dark horses to make the roster or contribute a few years down the road. While they typically don’t work out, some do and that’s fun to speculate on. This year, that player seems to be Texas A&M product Quartney Davis, who was a well-recruited high school athlete that unfortunately had to miss his first year of college due to injury and didn’t contribute much his second year for the Aggies. While he didn’t produce to an enormous degree, his potential remains tantalizing.

Strengths: Davis has excellent short-area movement capability — stop-start acceleration/deceleration, lateral agility and more. He uses that alongside solid route-running techniques to generate consistent separation. Boasts great footwork and use of lower-body fakes to deceive opposing cornerbacks. He’s good off the release, both with his ability to create separation via elusiveness and hand-fighting techniques to beat the jam. Great balance and body control. Has a good understanding of holes in zone coverage and finding windows for the quarterback. Seems to have command of the offense when tasked with sit/follow assignments. He can hold on to the ball through contact. Works his way to the ball and plucks it outside of his frame.

Weaknesses: Despite reasonable top-end speed to threaten deep, doesn’t separate enough to be considered a reliable deep threat, especially when paired with poor ball tracking. Has a very poor record of production on deep routes, often dropping passes or missing them entirely. Has the frame, but doesn’t demonstrate the strength to win on 50/50 balls. Strength issues persist throughout, with problems asserting route path, maintaining the sideline or winning against press coverage. Despite generally good catch technique, can’t seem to hold on to catches. Doesn’t appear focus-related; regularly drops passes. Doesn’t win contested catches either. After-catch capability is very poor despite acceleration. He can be taken down easily by arm tackles. Despite agility and route-running fundamentals, does a very poor job maintaining route timing, especially on comeback routes. Has the technical side of route-running down but not every mental aspect of it, especially when it comes to disguising routes.

(Jesse Johnson / USA Today) Dan Chisena More potential than production, Chisena is the embodiment of the track athlete attempting to play football. That’s not a metaphor, either — he spent most of his time at Penn State on its track team, setting school records in the 4×100 and 4×400 relays. He started out as a walk-on for both the track and football teams, technically spending his redshirt freshman season on the football roster. After a track scholarship offer prohibited him from playing football for the school for a few years, a hamstring injury forced him to reconsider his priorities and he returned to the football program, earning a scholarship spot in the process. He has a long way to go before he can contribute on a regular basis on a football roster, but he’s an intriguing developmental piece.

Strengths: Naturally fast; reportedly ran a 4.32 in the pre-draft process. Paired with a 6-2 frame, he has the potential to become a size/speed weapon. After re-joining the football team, worked his way quickly up from the scout team to active game-day player with a number of special team snaps, even earning playing time from scrimmage. Well- reputed to be a big asset on special teams, particularly in coverage, either as a punt gunner or on the kickoff unit. Was able to generate some buzz on the all-star circuit at the SPIRAL Tropical Bowl.

Weaknesses: Virtually no evaluable film, a product of having essentially no football experience. Ideally, developmental players would be younger — Chisena has already turned 23. Somewhat notable that he was only able to generate 66 yards in his final year of college; understandable given the circumstances but hasn’t proven he can produce. Presumably remarkably raw, with likely work needed to prove he can pick up an offense, understand how to change his routes based on defensive cues, develop route-running skills, release skills and more. Injury history deserves consideration.

(Sergei Belski / USA Today) Bralon Addison The Vikings almost always see fit to bring in CFL talent to supplement their training camp roster, especially at the receiver position. Addison, a former Oregon receiver initially signed by the Broncos in 2016, has been remarkably productive in the CFL — in 2019, he was fourth in yards per game and third in receptions per game, which earned him a spot on the CFL’s All-Star team. A poor series of college workouts diminished his chances of getting drafted in 2016, but with professional production on his resume, he’s earned another crack at an NFL roster.

Strengths: Addison is a fluid athlete whose running style is tough to nail down, can effortlessly change directions. Has decent start-stop agility and great lateral agility, aiding in his route-running. Economical running style extends to efficient route-running overall, with few wasted steps at the stem. Extremely low drop rate in college on a high number of targets, something he carried with him into the CFL, good catch technique without reliance on trapping the ball to his body. He doesn’t just corral the ball well but also gets to the ball easily. Boasts great ball tracking and good body control. Wasn’t tasked with kickoff or punt return work in the CFL, but he has some work there in college, and that translates into his scrimmage play, with strength and balance to shed tackles and good after-catch vision.

Weaknesses: His size and catch radius are concerns, especially with limited arm length. Didn’t run a variety of routes at Oregon and was schemed open in both college and the CFL in ways that won’t translate to NFL play. Physical tools of a good route runner but without the deception aspect necessary to succeed. Multiple workouts running slower than 4.60 seconds in the 40-yard dash in multiple environments and he doesn’t exhibit chase speed to get away from defenders. Will likely be relegated to an underneath role in the NFL like he was in the CFL. Benefited from clean releases from motion or in the slot at Oregon and on running “waggle” plays in the CFL, likely limited to slot- only appearances in the NFL. Limited showing against press looked poor, easily bullied by bigger corners. Doesn’t maintain clean route paths against physicality and can get pushed to the sideline. Not much experience adjusting routes to defenses and doesn’t seek holes in zone coverage all that well. Didn’t have much ball security as a returner in college, with seven . PUBLICATION: CBS Sports DATE: 7/12/20

Every NFL team's best player who is not enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, yet

By Bryan DeArdo

Last summer, Pro Football Hall of Fame president David Baker decided to extend the 2020 Hall of Fame class to 20 members. Baker said that his reasoning behind the decision was to celebrate the NFL's centennial season while also allowing more openings for deserving players, coaches and contributors to earn their rightful place in Canton, .

While this year's expanded induction class (which will officially be enshrined in 2021) certainly helped, there are still a slew of deserving players who are waiting to earn their rightful place in the Hall of Fame. We're still several months away from beginning the process of determining next year's Hall of Fame class, but we decided to take a look at each NFL's team's best player who is currently not in Canton.

Here is the criteria for the list:

The player must have played more than half of his career for the franchise The player must be currently eligible for induction into the Hall of Fame So, who is your favorite team's best non-Hall of Fame player? Let's find out.

Arizona Cardinals - Ottis Anderson, RB Anderson's success during his eight seasons with the Cardinals, along with his late-career resurgence with the Giants, should be enough to one day earn him a place in Canton. The 1979 offensive Rookie of the Year, Anderson earned All-Pro honors that season while rushing for a career-high 1,605 yards. In his first 86 games with the Cardinals, Anderson averaged 86 rushing yards and 111 all-purpose yards. He also scored 45 while helping the Cardinals post three consecutive winning seasons from 1982-84.

In 1986, Anderson was traded to the Giants, where he served as Joe Morris' backup during New York's first run. Three years later, Anderson was back in the , rushing for over 1,000 yards while helping the Giants post a 12-4 record. The following season, Anderson again led the Giants in rushing during the regular season while helping New York stun the two-time defending champion 49ers in the NFC title game. In Super Bowl XXV, Anderson rumbled for 102 yards and a to help the Giants topple the favored Bills. Anderson, 34 years old at the time, is still the oldest in league history to be named Super Bowl MVP.

Atlanta Falcons - Tommy Nobis, LB Atlanta's first draft pick, Nobis played on just two winning teams during his 11-year tenure with the Falcons. Despite his team's lack of success, Nobis earned the recognition of his peers, earning five Pro Bowl selections and one All- Pro nod during his first seven seasons.

The NFL's Rookie of the Year in 1966, Nobis recorded a whopping 294 tackles that season. That total is not only a Falcons' franchise record, it is unofficially the the most tackles ever credited to a player in NFL history, according to the Falcons' team website. Nobis' early success earned him a place on the NFL's All-Decade Team for the 1960s.

"I just remember how dominating a football player he was," former Cardinals Hall of Fame offensive lineman once said of Nobis. "I remember his speed. For a big guy, I was startled that a guy could make that many plays on the sideline from a middle position."

Baltimore Ravens - Jamal Lewis, RB Lewis' career is a little bizarre. The fifth overall pick in the 2000 draft, Lewis rushed for 1,364 yards as a rookie while helping the Ravens reach their first Super Bowl. In Super Bowl XXXV, Lewis rushed for 102 yards and a touchdown in Baltimore's 34-7 win over the Giants. Three years later, Lewis earned Offensive Player of the Year honors after rushing for 2,066 yards, the third-highest total in NFL history. Lewis, who played his final three seasons for the Browns (helping post a 10-6 record in 2007), compiled four other 1,000-yard rushing seasons. His 10,607 career rushing yards are 25th in league history.

Despite his success, the only time Lewis earned All Pro/Pro Bowl honors was during his monster 2003 season. Lewis also did not have a terribly long career, as he hung up his cleats for good before his 31st birthday. He also missed the entire 2001 season after suffering a knee injury. But despite his lack of longevity and Pro Bowl nods, Lewis' body of work should render him future consideration for Canton.

Buffalo Bills - , WR One of the greatest special teams players in NFL history, Tasker earned seven Pro Bowl nods from 1987-95. During that span, Tasker helped the Bills become the first franchise appear in four consecutive Super Bowls. Tasker's brilliance was on display during the opening minutes of Super Bowl XXVII. With the Cowboys punting from their own 16 yard line, Tasker was lined up against linebacker Robert Jones, a rookie who filled in for an injured starter. Jones didn't have a chance against Tasker, who beat Jones on an inside move before blocking Mike Saxon's punt. Tasker's play set up the game's first touchdown.

Two other Bills from the '90s that I considered were linebackers and . The duo played a considerable role in helping the Bills' defense allow an average of just 17.3 points per game during their four-year run atop the AFC.

Carolina Panthers - , LB Few players have had a bigger impact on a franchise than Mills. While he initially made his mark in New Orleans, Mills brought an immediate spark to the expansion Panthers. After racking up 110 tackles during his first season in Carolina, Mills earned All-Pro honors in 1996 while helping the Panthers reach the NFC Championship Game in just their second year of existence. Mills enjoyed a productive third season with the Panthers before calling it a career after the 1997 season.

A five-time Pro Bowler, Mills is a member of the Saints Hall of Fame as well as the Panthers Ring of Honor. A former Panthers assistant coach, Mills, who continued to coach despite receiving a cancer diagnosis, was the inspirational force behind the Panthers' run to Super Bowl XXXVII. His "keep pounding" mantra continues to serve as the team's rallying cry. Mills, who died in April of 2005, had his number 51 retired by the Panthers before the start of the '05 season. A statue of Mills in his Panthers jersey currently sits outside Bank of America Stadium.

Cincinnati Bengals - Ken Riley, CB Riley, who died earlier this year, retired with 65 , which is tied for the fifth highest total in NFL history. The player Riley is compared to is , who will likely receive a gold jacket in 2021, his first year of eligibility. An incredibly consistent player throughout his career, Riley picked off at least four passes nine different times, tallying a career-high nine interceptions in 1976. A key member of the Bengals' 1981 AFC championship team, Riley returned a league high three interceptions for touchdowns during his final two seasons. In 1983, his final NFL season, the 36-year-old Riley recorded eight interceptions (returning two for scores) while earning his first career All- Pro selection.

Chicago Bears - Steve McMichael, DT One of best players on the Bears' vaunted 46 defense, McMichael earned his first of three consecutive Pro Bowl honors in 1985 while helping Chicago capture its only Lombardi Trophy. A two-time All-Pro, McMichael had 92.5 career sacks for Chicago, second in franchise history. McMichael and (a 2002 Hall of Fame inductee) formed one of the greatest defensive duos in NFL history, a unit that totaled 41.5 sacks from 1984-88.

"Those two guys at the point of attack were as good as anything I've ever been around coaching or playing," former teammate and current Washington coach Ron Rivera recently told The Athletic.

Cleveland Browns - Clay Matthews, LB A four-time Pro Bowler, Matthews spent 16 of his 19 NFL seasons with the Browns, helping Cleveland win five AFC Central division titles during the 1980s. Matthews retired with 69.5 career sacks, 27 forced fumbles and 14 recoveries. He also led the NFL in tackles on four different occasions. One of Matthews' best seasons did not result in a Pro Bowl selection. In 1984, Matthews led the league with 126 tackles while also posting 12 sacks and three forced fumbles. Matthews' play was a major reason why the Browns appeared in three AFC Championship Games from 1986-89.

While he has yet to receive the call to Canton, Matthews was inducted into the Browns' Ring of Honor in 2019.

Dallas Cowboys - Drew Pearson, WR , , Ed "Too Tall" Jones and are among the Cowboys' greatest players who are still waiting for their calls to Canton. But the best Cowboy who is still not a member of the Hall of Fame is Pearson, the only player from the NFL's 1970s All-Decade team who is still waiting to receive his gold jacket. Pearson was brought to tears after he was again passed over during last year's Hall of Fame induction announcement.

A three-time All-Pro, Pearson led the NFL in receiving yards in 1977 while helping the Cowboys win their second Super Bowl. Two years earlier, his Hail Mary catch propelled the Cowboys past the Vikings in the 1975 playoffs. Nicknamed "Clutch" for his knock for making big plays in big games, Pearson caught 68 passes for 1,131 yards and eight touchdowns in postseason competition.

Denver Broncos - , LB While Tom Jackson and Rod Smith received consideration, Gradishar remains the greatest Bronco who is still waiting for his place in Canton. The 14th overall pick in the 1974 draft, Gradishar earned All-Pro honors in 1977 while leading Denver's "Orange Crush" defense, a unit that helped spearhead the Broncos' first Super Bowl appearance. Gradishar earned five more Pro Bowl selections (as well as another All-Pro nod) during his final six seasons with the Broncos. A member of the Broncos Ring of Fame, Gradishar is credited with over 2,000 tackles during his 10-year career.

"We didn't see Denver that often," Dan Hampton told back in 2014, "but it was fun watching game films of Gradishar. We'd kid and say, 'Look at that -- Gradishar takes on a block, he doesn't dance around it, Mike.'

"One time I asked who gave him the hardest shot in his career. He told me one name -- Gradishar. He was well-respected in Chicago."

Detroit Lions - Herman Moore, WR A three-time All-Pro, Moore caught a then NFL record 123 passes in 1995. He also recorded 1,686 yards (third behind Hall of Famers Jerry Rice and Isaac Bruce) and 14 touchdowns. Two years later, Moore again led the NFL in receptions while eclipsing the 1,200-yard barrier for a fourth straight year. During a seven-year span, Moore averaged 85 receptions for 1,190 yards and 8 touchdowns a season. Not bad for a receiver who never played with a Pro Bowl quarterback.

Moore's former teammate, Robert Porcher (95.5 career sacks) also received consideration.

Green Bay Packers - LeRoy Butler, SS Butler is one of the two first-team safeties on the NFL's All-Decade team for the 1990s. The other is , who was part of this year's Hall of Fame induction class. A four-time All-Pro (that included three straight seasons from 1996-98), the versatile Butler racked up 38 interceptions, 889 tackles, 20.5 sacks, 13 forced fumbles and 10 fumble recoveries over his career. He also recorded the first Lambeau Leap, which should definitely count for something. Butler's success helped the Packers win one Super Bowl and two NFC titles during the '90s.

Houston Texans - Andre Johnson, WR We're bending the rules here as it relates to players only being on this list who are eligible for enshrinement. I'm making an exception in this case because the Texans, created in 2002, don't have any great former players who are currently eligible for enshrinement. That brings us to Johnson, who will be eligible for enshrinement in 2022. Johnson, a seven-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, led the league in receptions and receiving yards on two different occasions. A key member of the Texans' first four AFC South championship teams, Johnson is 11th all time in career receptions (1,062) and receiving yards (14,185).

Indianapolis Colts - Reggie Wayne, WR Wayne (who did not receive enough votes this past year to get inducted during his first year of eligibility) was often overshadowed by more flamboyant receivers. Wayne also spent more than half of his career playing alongside Marvin Harrison, who received his gold jacket in 2016.

While his career may have not received the attention it deserved, Wayne's career numbers speak for themselves. Wayne, a six-time Pro Bowler, led the NFL in receiving yards 2007. Two years later (after Harrison retired during the 2008 offseason), Wayne helped lead the Colts to their second Super Bowl in four years. And while his career marks (he's 10th all-time in receptions and receiving yards) are impressive, Wayne's postseason numbers -- he caught 93 passes for 1,254 yards and nine touchdowns -- truly set him apart from his peers.

Kansas City Chiefs - Otis Taylor, WR We're continuing our run of receivers with Taylor, whose game went through a seamless transition after the Chiefs moved from the AFL to the NFL following the 1970 league merger. Fittingly, in the final game played before the merger, Taylor made the game-breaking play, as his 46-yard touchdown reception sealed the Chiefs' victory over the Vikings in Super Bowl IV.

Taylor made an even greater play against the Raiders in that year's AFL Championship Game. With the score tied in the third quarter, and with the Chiefs facing a third and long just outside their own end zone, Kansas City quarterback Len Dawson found Taylor for a 41-yard gain. The play helped set up the Chiefs' go-ahead touchdown. Simply put, Chiefs fans grew accustomed to seeing those type of exploits from Taylor, a multiple All-Pro who led the NFL in receiving yards in 1971.

San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers - Leslie O'Neal, OLB/DE I'm not going to ignore the strange fact that our receiver streak ends with the Chargers, who were synonymous with high-flying offenses during their first 25 years of existence. Shout outs are in order for former Chargers receivers John Jefferson and Wes Chandler, who enjoyed tremendous stretches of success catching passes from Hall of Fame quarterback Dan Fouts. Russ Washington, the team's best offensive linemen during the "Air Coryell" era, also received consideration.

The top spot here, however, goes to O'Neal, whose 132.5 career sacks is the same career total as . Making O'Neal's career even more impressive is the fact that he was able to rebound from a severe knee injury that wiped out his entire second season. A six-time Pro Bowler, O'Neal tallied at least 10 sacks in a season eight times. His 12.5 sacks during the 1994 season helped the Chargers capture their first AFC championship. From 1989-95, O'Neal recorded 89 sacks that included a career-high 17 sacks during the 1992 season.

St. Louis/ - Torry Holt, WR Now that Isaac Bruce is set to receive his gold jacket in 2021, that leaves the Rams' "other" receiver during their "Greatest Show on Turf" era as the franchise's best player who has yet to earn a place in Canton. A seven-time Pro Bowler, Holt helped St. Louis win the Super Bowl during his rookie season. In Super Bowl XXXIV, Holt's third quarter touchdown catch (as well as his 109 receiving yards) helped the Rams hold off the Titans in one of the greatest Super Bowls ever played.

Holt led the NFL in receiving yards on two separate occasions. In 2003, he paced the league in both receptions (117) and receiving yards (1,696). During an eight-year span, Holt averaged 94 receptions for 1,385 yards and eight touchdowns a season. His 13,382 career receiving yards is currently 16th on the all-time list.

Jacksonville Jaguars - Tony Boselli, LT Injuries are the only reason why Boselli is not already in Canton. The Jaguars' first draft pick, Boselli was selected to five consecutive Pro Bowls from 1996-2000. He also earned three straight All-Pro nods while helping the Jaguars appear in two AFC Championship Games. Boselli's career was cut short in 2001, however, as he was forced to retire after 99 career games. In 2006, he became the first member of the Jaguars Hall of Fame.

Miami Dolphins - Zach Thomas, ILB The Dolphins have a slew of Canton worthy players who still haven't gotten the call. Among those players are former offensive lineman Bob Kuechenberg, receivers Mark Duper and Mark Clayton and running back Ricky Williams. Thomas, a seven-time Pro Bowler and five-time All-Pro, is at the top of that list. A former fifth-round pick, Thomas was one of the NFL's most productive players during his dozen seasons in Miami. Thomas, who led the NFL in tackles on two separate occasions, retired with 1,734 career tackles, 20.5 sacks, 17 interceptions, 48 passes defensed, 16 forced fumbles and eight fumble recoveries. His play helped the Dolphins make the playoffs each year from 1997-01.

Minnesota Vikings - Jim Marshall, DE A valued member of Minnesota's "" defensive line, Marshall holds numerous NFL records that includes the most seasons played by a defensive player (20, along with Junior Seau and Darrell Green), most consecutive games by a defensive player (282), most consecutive starts by a defensive player (270), and most career fumble recoveries (30). Marshall, who was still a starter at age 42, helped the Vikings win three NFC titles along with the NFL championship in 1969.

Another Viking who played during Marshall's era, running back Chuck Foreman, was also considered. The 1973 Offensive Rookie of the Year, Foreman -- way ahead of his time in terms of his versatility -- led the NFL in receptions in 1975 while averaging 20 yards per catch.

New England Patriots - Richard Seymour, DE/DT The sixth overall pick in the 2001 draft, Seymour helped the Patriots capture their first of six Super Bowls during his rookie season. Seven years later, Seymour left New England as a three-time champion, five-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro. Seymour wasn't done, however, adding two more Pro Bowl selections to his resume during his four years with the Raiders. Seymour, who was recently voted into the Patriots' Hall of Fame, received a letter on his behalf to the Hall of Fame voters by former coach Bill Belichick.

"Richard Seymour was unquestionably one of our key players," Belichick wrote, "and I do not believe we would have won three championships without him."

New Orleans Saints - , LB/DE A key member of the Saints' "" defense of the late '80s/early '90s, Swilling earned five consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 1989-93. He also earned two consecutive All-Pro nods during that span while leading the NFL in sacks (with 17) during the 1991 season. His 107.5 sacks is the 24th highest total in league history.

While his best years were with the Saints, Swilling's final Pro Bowl selection came following his first season with the Lions in 1993. He recorded 13 sacks two years later as a member of the Raiders.

New York Giants - Tiki Barber, RB After receiving just 11 starts during his first three seasons, Barber broke through in 2000, amassing over 1,700 all- purpose yards while helping the Giants reach the Super Bowl. He went on to enjoy six more highly productive seasons with the Giants that included three consecutive Pro Bowl seasons. Barber earned All-Pro honors in 2005, when he rushed for a career-high 1,860 yards (the 13th-highest single-season total in NFL history). During his final three seasons, Barber averaged 1,680 rushing yards (while averaging 5 yards per carry) and 2,204 all-purpose yards. In 2006, his final NFL season, Barber rushed for 1,662 yards while reaching 2,000 all-purpose yards for a third straight season.

New York Jets - , DL may have been the more celebrated member of the Jets' 1980s "New York Sack Exchange," but Klecko's mastery of three different positions made him an easy choice. A defensive end during the 1981 season, Klecko was named the AFC's Defensive Player of the Year after recording 20.5 sacks. But despite his success, Klecko was asked to move to , a position where he earned Pro Bowl distinction in 1983 and '84. In 1985, after moving position to nose tackle, Klecko received his second All-Pro selection while helping the Jets win 11 games for the first time since 1968. Had knee injuries not gotten in the way, Klecko would likely already have a bronze bust in Canton.

"Listen, to be elected into the Hall of Fame has to be the piece de resistance in your career," Klecko recently told The Athletic.

Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders - Cliff Branch, WR Branch, one of the greatest deep threats in league history, may very well be the best former NFL player who is not currently a Hall of Famer. A three-time All-Pro, Branch led the NFL in receiving yards and touchdown receptions in 1974, his first season as a starter. Two years later, Branch led the NFL in touchdown receptions while helping the Raiders capture their first Lombardi Trophy. Branch continued to be a force well into the '80s, as he was a key member of the Raiders' Super Bowl championship teams in 1980 and '83. One of the greatest postseason receivers in NFL history, Branch caught three touchdowns in the Raiders' victories over Philadelphia and Washington in Super Bowls XV and XVIII.

While Branch (who died in 2019) was again passed over for induction in 2020, his family is holding out hope that No. 21 will finally earn enshrinement in 2021.

"It would mean the world to us," Elaine Anderson, Cliff's sister, told CBS Sports back in February. "It would mean everything to us, because we know that he's deserving. His records speak for itself."

Philadelphia Eagles - Donovan McNabb, QB The No. 2 pick in the 1999 draft, McNabb quickly won over the City of Brotherly Love after leading the Eagles to the playoffs in 2000, his first season as a starter. Over the next four years, McNabb would lead Philadelphia to four consecutive NFC Championship Games and an NFC title at the end of the 2004 season. McNabb would lead the Eagles to a fifth NFC title game in 2008 before earning his final Pro Bowl berth as Philadelphia's quarterback in 2009. Including the playoffs, McNabb posted an impressive 101-56-1 record as the Eagles' starting quarterback. His 1-5 record in championship games is likely the reason why he has struggled to gain more Hall of Fame momentum.

San Francisco 49ers - Roger Craig, RB A four-time Pro Bowler, Craig was a vital member of the 49ers' 1980s dynasty. In 1985, a year after becoming the first player to score three touchdowns in a Super Bowl game, Craig became the first player to surpass 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in the same season. Three years later, Craig earned All-Pro honors after rushing for a career- high 1,502 yards. His success that season helped the 49ers capture their third Super Bowl win of the decade. The following year, Craig's three postseason touchdowns helped San Francisco become the second franchise to win four Super Bowls.

Craig, who led the NFL in receptions in 1985 and all-purpose yards in 1988, is a member of the NFL's All-Decade Team for the 1980s, along with Hall of Famers Walter Payton, and John Riggins. Craig also had arguably the decade's best run, which should count for something.

Seattle Seahawks - Shaun Alexander, RB While his prime was relatively short, Alexander enjoyed a highly productive five-year run that saw him win one rushing title while leading the NFL in rushing touchdowns twice. Alexander also earned three Pro Bowl selections during this span while being named the 2005 Offensive Player of the Year. Alexander's success that season helped Seattle reach its first Super Bowl.

Alexander's 100 rushing touchdowns is tied with Marshall Faulk for the eighth highest total in league history. From 2001-05, Alexander averaged 1,501 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns per season.

Pittsburgh Steelers - Alan Faneca, LG L.C. Greenwood, Hines Ward and Andy Russell are the other three Steelers who received consideration as the Steelers' greatest non Hall of Fame player. As deserving as those players are, the top spot belongs to Faneca, a Hall of Fame finalist each of the last five years. A First Team member of the NFL's All-Decade Team for the 2000s, Faneca earned nine straight Pro Bowl selections from 2001-09. He also earned six All-Pro nods during that span while solidifying his place as arguably the greatest lineman of his era.

In Super Bowl XL, Faneca's crushing block opened a clear lane for teammate Willie Parker, whose 75-yard touchdown run (a Super Bowl record) helped propel Pittsburgh to a 21-10 victory. He continued to play at a Pro Bowl level during his two seasons with the Jets, helping New York reach the AFC title game in 2009.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers - John Lynch, SS A 2020 Hall of Fame finalist, Lynch, who is currently the general manager of the 49ers, was forced to wait at least another year before earning induction into Canton. A nine-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, Lynch was a key member of a Buccaneers' defense that spearheaded Tampa Bay's 2002 Super Bowl run. Lynch continued to play at a high level after signing with the Broncos in 2004, as he earned Pro Bowl honors during each of his four seasons in Denver while helping his new team reach the AFC title game in 2005.

Also receiving consideration here was fullback Mike Alstott. A six-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro, Alstott rushed for 58 touchdowns during his 11-year career. He also caught 13 touchdown passes while compiling 7,372 all- purpose yards for his career. He also helped create running lanes for teammates Warrick Dunn (who should also receive more Hall of Fame consideration), Michael Pittman and Cadillac Williams.

Tennessee Titans: Eddie George, RB A true battering ram, George helped carry the Titans to their first Super Bowl in 1999. A Pro Bowler each season from 1997-99 (as well as an All-Pro in 2000), George's 95 yards and two touchdowns on the ground in Super Bowl XXXIV helped the Titans overcome a 16-point deficit. George likely would have been named the game's MVP if the Titans would have been able to upset the Rams, who held on for a 23-16 victory. In four games during the '99 postseason, George rushed for 449 yards and three touchdowns that included his 162-yard effort in Tennessee's upset of Peyton Manning's Colts in the divisional round.

George, who also won Offensive Rookie of the Year honors during his career, had seven 1,000-yard seasons during his time with the franchise. He, along with quarterback Steve McNair, had a major impact in the integration of the franchise within the Nashville community after the franchise moved from Houston to Nashville in 1997.

Washington: Joe Theismann, QB Theismann edges out receiver Gary Clark as the best Washington player who is currently not in Canton. A late bloomer (he didn't become Washington's full-time starter until age 29), Theismann helped lead Washington to its first Super Bowl victory in 1982. The following season, Theismann earned league MVP honors while leading Washington back to the big game. Theismann was still going strong when a gruesome leg injury prematurely ended his career 11 games into the 1985 season.

We'd be remiss not to mention the late Sean Taylor, whose career was off to a incredible start before he was tragically killed in the fall of 2007. While he was still in the early stages of his career, Taylor, a two-time Pro Bowler, left little doubt that he was likely on his way to the Hall of Fame. Taylor's greatness was on display during the 2005 playoffs, as his 51-yard fumble return for a score helped Washington defeat the Buccaneers in the wild-card round.