Same with Gradishar -
https://www.denverbroncos.com/video/...broncos-career
The only reason that Gradishar doesn't lead all the stat boards is because they didn't keep track of tackles officially during his career. When they went back over the film, they found that he averaged over 200 tackles/season. And oh by the way, 4 of those were those were 14 game seasons. Ray Lewis had 1568 tackles in 17 years. That's the highest recorded total in the history of the NFL. Gradishar had over 2000 tackles in 10 seasons. Those weren't Nate Webster/Todd Davis numbers either (8 yards past the LOS).
In January 2008, he was voted by a panel of former NFL players and coaches to Pro Football Weekly 's All-Time 3-4 defensive team. In 1981, SPORT magazine named Gradishar one of the Top 5 hardest He was named Defensive Player of the Year in 1978. He was a 7 time pro bowler when pro bowls meant something. He was twice named first team all-pro.
Gradishar is still the greatest defensive player I've ever seen in a Broncos uniform. His film was the definition of "always around the ball." It's a crime that he's not in the Hall of Fame.
Anybody who didn’t vote for Gradishar is likely too young to have seen him play.
“If there are no animals in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” - Will Rogers (paraphrased)
Both Gradishar and Meck should be in the HOF. Zero question.
But, if I had to only choose one, it'd be Gradishar. Dude was the best LB during his playing days, hands down.
As much as i love all of them and as much as i love the Assassin the flat out best defensive player i have ever seen which also coincides with the best SB performance i have ever seen is Von Miller. On the biggest stage ever he showed why he is the current franchise and absolutely destroyed the Panthers offense.
You are right about Von Miller that year, and that SB. He was a one man wrecking crew. But, Champ is my favorite out of the ones mentioned. Probably because I played the position, and really appreciate his talent. I wish I was an ounce as good as Bailey was.
As far as Gradishar, I would have to watch highlights. I do appreciate Meck, though.
Champ was great and his INT in the playoff game against Brady was legendary. Just too bad we couldnt finish that year off with a Championship. But Von took that 2015 season to the bank and closed the deal even when i had my doubts.
Yep. Definitely wish I could of seen him play live (I may of, but I don't remember). I was one yrs old when he was drafted, and 10 when he retired. During that time, all I remember is my Dad watching the Oilers, and Earl Campbell. Next time I talk to my Dad, I'll ask what he thought of Gradishar because I know the Oilers played the Broncos quite often during that time.
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