The 2024 Pro Football Hall of Fame Class is led by two former Miami Hurricanes players.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame revealed its newest members on Thursday night, welcoming seven individuals into its esteemed ranks. Among the inductees are two former University of Miami Hurricanes, Devin Hester and Andre Johnson, who will join other football legends in Canton this summer.
This year’s class, predominantly focused on defense, comprises seven former players, including two senior inductees, Randy Gradishar and Steve “Mongo” McMichael. The remaining members of the class are Dwight Freeney, Julius Peppers, and Patrick Willis.
Andre Johnson achieves a significant milestone as the first Houston Texan to be enshrined in Canton. Over his 14-year career, Johnson accumulated impressive stats, boasting 1,062 receptions for 14,185 yards and 70 touchdowns. Drafted third overall, he earned seven Pro Bowl selections and secured a spot as a two-time First Team All-Pro.
Devin Hester makes history as the first kick returner and special teams player chosen for the Hall of Fame. Widely regarded as one of the greatest return men in NFL history, Hester scored 14 punt return touchdowns and five kickoff return touchdowns during his 11-year career. Notably, his electrifying 92-yard touchdown against the Indianapolis Colts in Super Bowl XLI stands out.
Dwight Freeney, a formidable pass rusher, spent 16 years in the NFL, primarily with the Indianapolis Colts. With seven Pro Bowl appearances and three All-Pro recognitions, Freeney played a crucial role in the Colts’ Super Bowl XLI victory over Hester’s Chicago Bears. He concluded his career with 125.5 sacks and 128 tackles for loss.
Julius Peppers, known for his standout career with the Carolina Panthers, finished fourth on the all-time sack list, tallying 159.5 sacks.
Randy Gradishar and Steve “Mongo” McMichael, selected from the senior ballot in their final year of eligibility, add depth to the class. Gradishar, a standout for the Denver Broncos in the 1970s and 1980s, earned seven Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro nods, including the 1978 AP Defensive Player of the Year award. McMichael played a pivotal role in the 1985 Chicago Bears, one of the greatest defenses in NFL history, which secured a Super Bowl victory.
Patrick Willis, who played eight seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, participated in seven Pro Bowls, earned All-Pro honors for five seasons, and received the Rookie of the Year Award in 2007.
