Six Ex-Patriots Nominated For Pro Football Hall Of Fame

Richard Seymour, Tedy Bruschi, Ben Coates, Corey Dillon, Willie McGinest, and Rodney Harrison are on the 122-member list of modern-era player nominees for the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2020.

When compared to other players of this group, Seymour has the highest chance at making it. He was a finalist last year, but missed the chance. In his 12-year career, Seymour had 57.5 sacks and multiple roles with the Patriots’ defensive line. In 2018, head coach Bill Belichick wrote a letter to the selection committee advocating for Seymour to secure a spot in Canton. The head coach praised Seymour’s size, strength and athleticism.

Seymour is a three-time Super Bowl champion and three-time All-Pro. He is part of a group of eight finalists from 2018 who missed the cut but got another chance: Seymour, Steve Atwater, Tony Boselli, Isaac Bruce, Edgerrin James, Alan Faneca, Steve Hutchinson and John Lynch.

“A Hall of Fame finalist this past season, Seymour likely has the best shot of those primarily remembered as Patriots. After being selected in the first round, Seymour spent eight seasons with New England, winning three Super Bowls. A dominant defensive end whose stellar play didn’t always register on the stat sheet, Seymour anchored the front line of the first dynasty defense.”

Bruschi was the core of the Patriots defense. His playoffs were golden. During his 13 seasons with the team, Bruschi made one Pro Bowl and was named a Second Team All-Pro twice. He spent his entire season with the Patriots.

“Harrison played nine seasons in San Diego before finishing his final five years with the Patriots, but he might be more remembered for leading New England to two Super Bowl titles and an undefeated season. He was the first NFL player with 30 sacks and 30 interceptions.”

Wide receiver Chad Johnson, running back Fred Taylor and offensive lineman Brian Waters spent some time with the Patriots, but most associate their professional career with other NFL teams.

The Hall of Fame cuts the list of 122 nominees to 25 semifinalists. This list will be paired to 15 finalists in early January. The Hall’s selection committee votes on 2020 inductees during its annual meeting scheduled on Feb. 1.